Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has today criticised the Government’s continued failure to provide State funding for the much-needed extension of the runway at Waterford Airport.
Deputy McGuinness recently raised the matter directly with the Minister for Transport through a Parliamentary Question, pressing for clarity on when a decision would finally be made.
In his response, Minister Darragh O’Brien confirmed that although his Department has completed its initial assessment of the project, no commitment has yet been made, and the matter remains under consideration.
Speaking today, Deputy McGuinness said:
“The people of Waterford and the South East are once again being left behind. Despite repeated promises and protracted assessments, the Government has failed to deliver the funding required to extend and upgrade the runway at Waterford Airport.
“Waterford Airport is a critical piece of infrastructure for our region, with the potential to unlock major economic and tourism opportunities, support regional development, and create much-needed jobs. The delay in providing funding is simply unacceptable and speaks volumes about this Government’s neglect of the South East.
“Sinn Féin has been consistently calling for real investment in regional infrastructure. It’s long past time for action. The Government must stop stalling, commit to the runway extension, and deliver for Waterford.”
Deputy McGuinness also warned that ongoing delays risk undermining investor and business confidence in the South East:
“Every missed deadline and every delayed decision sends the wrong message about the Government’s commitment to balanced regional development. Waterford and the wider South East cannot afford to be an afterthought any longer.”
Sinn Féin remains committed to delivering real change for Waterford and ensuring that vital infrastructure projects like the Waterford Airport extension receive the support they urgently need.
Conor D. McGuinness TD 