Two million US military passed through Shannon since 2001

MORE than two million US troops transited through Shannon between the start of 2001 and January 26 of this year.
According to figures published by RTÉ, 12,154 US military flights arrived at Shannon carrying 2,030,925 passengers and 8,487 tonnes of military cargo passed through the airport.
The figures show that the amount of activity picked up significantly in 2003, with 115,911 troops arriving at the airport over the 12-month period in question.
In 2005, the number of arrivals also increased greatly, going from 1,044 to 1,973. In the same period, the number of passengers arriving went up from 147,244 to 335,847.
Shannon Town Councillor Greg Duff said efforts are needed to promote Shannon Airport as a tourism centre, rather than as a centre for the US military. “If Shannon needs a boost, and it most certainly does, it should be from something like the proposed humanitarian hub or as a tourism hub, rather than on the backs of people being slaughtered by a military/industrial complex.”
Councillor Duff also slammed the previous government for not taking up the US offer to transfer flights away from Shannon.
Independent Shannon Town and Clare County Councillor Patricia McCarthy said that in her view, the use of the airport by the US military wasn’t something that would inhibit the development of other services.
She also said that Ireland had to play its part in world affairs. “We are a member of the UN and we have certain responsibilities. Shannon has been used by many nations over the years, not just the Americans.”
Peace group, Shannonwatch claimed the amount of troops passing through Shannon is far too high. “The US Department of Defence has confirmed that 12,154 military flights have gone through Shannon between 2001 and the start of 2011. These took 2,030,925 armed troops and 8,487 tonnes of military cargo through what is supposed to be a civilian airport,” it claimed in a statement.
Former Irish Army commandant and Shannonwatch member, Edward Horgan said he had concerns about the types of planes being brought through Shannon. “I am particularly concerned about the safety of DC-10s, which seem to experience an inordinate amount of engine problems. These are old aircraft now and they are also licensed to carry munitions, which makes them a significant additional hazard,” he said.