Talk of Shannon seperation from DAA

THE separation of Shannon from the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) could come back on the agenda next year, according to Transport Minister Noel Dempsey.
Responding to a question in the Dáil from Clare TD Pat Breen, Minister Dempsey said, “The deputy is incorrect in claiming I shelved plans for the separation of Shannon and Cork Airports from the DAA. Due to the severe economic downturn and its effects on the international aviation industry, the chairs, boards and management of the various airports requested me to postpone the planned separation of the Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports from the one authority. They believed it would not be prudent, considering the economic positions in which they found themselves.
“Next year it is intended to examine the various possibilities for separation. I will listen carefully to the board and management of Shannon Airport if they want it to be separated from the DAA to run their own affairs. Their decision will carry much weight with me, so long as everyone knows the consequences of such a move.”
Deputy Breen claimed Shannon was operating “with one hand tied behind its back” and that there is a conflict of interest due to Shannon still being tied to the DAA.
However, the minister warned that Shannon would face greater pressures without its involvement in the DAA. “Some people would like to have no responsibility and just access to the cash. I am not saying that applies to Shannon Airport management.
“However, a subsidiary company cannot be able to spend monies belonging to its parent company unless it is prepared to take responsibility. The structure is not in place in the Dublin Airport Authority for this. If we do agree to separate the airports, it will mean Shannon becomes responsible for all of its decisions, generating its own income and ensuring its own survival.”