SUPPORT CORK AIRPORT

*Debts/Independence
The main issue for Cork Airport, in Ireland's second City, is it's lack of independence from Dublin Airport Authority. It also needs some of the Debts written off - the airport was built in the days of the Celtic Tiger, we all know how that has affected the economy. Shannon has international flights across to USA, and is doing well, that is fine.

But Cork is still under the thumb of Dublin Airport Authority and has been forced to charge higher landing fees, and is not able to develop. How can it improve it's range of flights, offer cheaper flights etc in this situation? 

*The Wild Atlantic Way - supports major tourism, but if the Airport fails to bring in flights from major airports in Europe, and further afield, the tourism economy in Cork will be even more seriously affected than it already is, since the demise of the Swansea/Cork Ferry. Small businesses and hotels are working hard to improve the economy, but without the airport feeding tourists in, how can things improve?

*Connectivity - businesses in the wider Cork area frequently need to fly to UK, and Europe and vice versa, businesses have been set up here because the Airport is here. The Business Park at the Airport is important to local economy and for transport logistics.

Close family/social ties with the UK, myself included, I fly to the Uk almost every month from Cork. I could not do this without the airport operting daily flights to the Uk.
Many people don't have time to drive to drive for 4-5 hours, or to take a coach or train.

Without the airport functioning we would be seriously cut off in the S West. Many of us would consider Dublin or Shannon to be too far to drive on a regular basis. With airport as a hub, we could also fly 

* IAG proposed takeover of Aer Lingus could have serious implications for Cork airport - most flights out of Cork are from Aer Lingus. Willie Walsh may promise a 5 year guarantee, but would we trust him in the long run? Maybe we don't want the Regional flights changed, and the Heathrow slot reduced.

We want some positive action from the Government, from the DAA, TD's, Businesses, Chambers of Commerce, individuals, and soon before Cork Airport becomes even less viable. We have a great facilty on our doorstep, please support this petition.