Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 May 2026
341. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Transport the spend by his Department in upgrading security infrastructure at Shannon Airport in 2026, 2025, 2024 and 2023; and to list the additional security measures put in place, and cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36624/26]
View answerGovernment provides significant supports to regional airports under the Regional Airports Programme. Under the previous 5-year programme Shannon Airport was not eligible for supports in 2024 and 2025. However, in 2023 capital funding of €5.373m was provided to the airport which included support for security screening equipment upgrades and security fencing projects.
In addition, Shannon Airport was allocatedfunding of almost €2 million under the Regional State Airports Sustainability Programme published in 2024. This programme supported regional State airports in meeting their carbon emissions reduction targets under the Climate Action Plan. This included support for the development of Shannon Airport’s Solar PV Farm.
In February, I published the new Regional Airports Programme 2026-2030. The scope of the new Programme has been broadened to include airports with up to three million annual passengers (on average over the two preceding financial years). The new Programme will ensure that Ireland’s smallest eligible regional airports, including Shannon Airport, may receive support for measures aimed at maintaining compliance with the European Union’s safety and security related obligations.
Last month, I approved a capital funding allocation of €1.936m for Shannon Airport, which includes support for the Airport’s Airfield Security Perimeter Fence project expected to be delivered this year.
