PRIORITISING the Shannon Airport rail link, implementing recommendations from the Shannon Estuary Taskforce and inclusion in the Regional Airports Programme over the next five years are key asks in a submission to the review of the National Development Plan.
Decisive action to address critical infrastructure deficits in the Mid-West is needed according to the Shannon Airport Group who submitted a proposal to the Government’s review of the National Development Plan (NDP).
Minister for Public Expenditure, Jack Chambers (FF) announced in April that a review of the NDP Delivery and Reform would take place. This is to shape public capital investment through 2035.
An urgent need for balanced regional development is stressed in the submission by the Shannon Airport Group, noting that it was a core objective of Project Ireland 2040. The Group warns that unless the NDP prioritises infrastructure in the Southern Region, the national vision for equitable economic and population growth risks falling short.
Shannon Airport’s inclusion in the Regional Airports Programme (RAP) 2026–2030 has been sought, as per the submission. “Aviation is a key enabler of economic growth by connecting markets, facilitating trade, and unlocking opportunities for tourism and investment. The Shannon Airport Group is advocating for Shannon Airport’s inclusion in the Regional Airport’s Programme to enable targeted capital investment. This would enhance operational capacity, safety, and sustainability, ensuring Shannon Airport continues to support trade, tourism, and labour mobility in a rapidly evolving global landscape”.
Objectives of Project Ireland 2040 can be advanced by Shannon Airport which serves as a key driver for both the national and regional economy. “By investing in infrastructure improvements and expanding route networks, Shannon Airport can reinforce Ireland’s long-term economic resilience, ensuring that the West of Ireland thrives economically, contributing to the balanced development outlined in the National Planning Framework”.
Regional accessibility would be enhanced for over 10,000 daily commuters through the transformative Shannon Airport Rail Link, the Group’s submission outlined. “Its inclusion in the All-Island Strategic Rail Review highlights its importance for sustainability, decarbonisation, and economic growth. The Group is calling for funding to accelerate the planning, design and construction of the project”.
Recommendations of the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce (SEET) must be integrated into the updated NDP, the Group argued. CEO of the Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine was also a member of the Taskforce. “The Estuary’s potential as a hub for renewable energy, sustainable industry, and tourism is immense. Strategic investment in this region will unlock significant economic and climate action benefits”.
According to Ms Considine, “The National Development Plan is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rebalance regional development. Our Group’s submission reinforces the need for a more equitable distribution of capital investment, aligning with Minister Chambers’ vision of boosting economic growth, enhancing competitiveness, and achieving balanced regional development”.
She added, “Shannon Airport is a vital economic engine for the Irish economy, and we are calling on Government to ensure that the updated NDP delivers the infrastructure and investment needed to realise the full potential of this region”.
