Buttimer Should Clarify Position on Cork Airport-O'Leary

Buttimer Should Clarify Position on Cork Airport-O'Leary

Councillor Chris O’Leary has called on Jerry Buttimer TD to make his position on the future of Cork Airport clear, saying holding a clinic on the issue last Monday was a diversionary tactic.

Cllr Chris O’Leary said:

“Jerry Buttimer and his party have repeatedly promised over the years that a Fine Gael government would ensure a debt-free, independent Cork Airport.”

“For example in April 2007 Jerry Buttimer stated publicly – and I quote – “"Fine Gael is committed to putting in place the financial structures to boost Cork Airport. In Government we will sit down with all the relevant stakeholders to develop a new financial package which solves the debt issue. We will not let debt drag down Cork airport.”

He also said: “Fine Gael has consistently opposed the Government's plan to leave Cork Airport with unsustainable debt. The airport has the potential to become an independent and financially viable airport in the interests of the Cork region, but not with such a crippling burden.”

Fast-forward to today and while the Review Group on State Assets and liabilities has recommended the privatisation of the airport and Booz and Company management consultants are preparing a report on its future, Jerry Buttimer was quoted last week as saying he had an “open mind” on its future.

Where are all the promises to stand up for Cork Airport now? Holding a special clinic on the issue and promising to pass on airport workers’ views to the Minister for Transport does not cut it. Jerry Buttimer should be insisting the government guarantee the future of Cork Airport as an independent, viable entity.”

“As a local TD, Jerry Buttimer should make his own position on the future of Cork Airport clear to constituents, and stop hiding behind a bogus consultation process.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307