Lack of rail connection is impacting Ireland West Airport

Lack of rail connection is impacting Ireland West Airport

Ireland West Airport could attract new airlines if it was directly connected to the country's rail service. 

The lack of a direct train link from Ireland West Airport Knock to other parts of the country is hampering the facility’s efforts in attracting new airlines. This was the message given to councillors from the Ballymote-Tubbercurry MD at their meeting this week at Ireland West Airport by Donal Healy, Head of Marketing, Aviation Business Development & Communications at the airport.

Mr. Healy told councillors that train services readily available for people at the doorstep of the airport would be a major asset for all concerned. This combined with the proposed upgrade to the N17 have been described as ‘a game changer’ for not only the airport but the wider northwest region.

Speaking afterwards to Ocean FM, Cllr Michael Clarke said the Government needs to prioritise both projects and that the railway was crucial for the development of the northwest. Together with the N17 they had been told that there was the potential to add between 250,000 and 300,000 bed nights for tourism in the Sligo area. Cathaoirleach of the Ballymote Tubbercurry MD Cllr Joe Queenan praised the vision and foresight of the late Monsignor Horan and said that Sligo County Council will do everything it can to support the airport.

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