South East Chambers urge Government to approve Waterford Airport Development, citing Regional Economic Growth and Job Creation potential
The South East Chambers of Commerce – representing Waterford Chamber, Wexford Chamber, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, Kilkenny Chamber and Carlow Chamber – have issued a united call to An Taoiseach, An Tánaiste, and Minister O’Gorman for immediate government action on the Waterford Airport expansion project. In a letter addressed to these government leaders, the Chambers highlighted that any delay in approving the project before the Dáil’s dissolution risks losing critical private sector backing and derailing substantial economic opportunities for the South East.
The proposed Waterford Airport development will be primarily funded by a private investment consortium committing approximately €30 million to extend the runway, complete vital infrastructure, and secure operational certifications. Only after these significant stages are completed will the government’s modest contribution of around €12 million be required. “This project structure substantially reduces taxpayer risk while promising significant economic benefits for our region,” the Chambers wrote.
Inconsistent Government Funding Threatens Regional Development
The Chambers raised concerns about disparities in government funding priorities, noting that while recent years have seen significant investments in other national infrastructure projects, Waterford Airport has been left behind. Examples include the €350 million allocated to Metro North and over €1 billion committed to a new Search and Rescue contract. “The government’s funding patterns reveal a concerning lack of commitment to the South East’s development needs, with Waterford Airport receiving no support while other Irish airports have received €488 million in funding since 2020,” said the Chambers.
Waterford Airport also lost its €350,000 annual subsidy at the start of the current administration despite being unable to operate passenger services during the planning period. “This funding gap sends a troubling message about the government’s commitment to balanced national development,” the letter continued.
Supporting Economic Growth, Business Connectivity, and Tourism
The South East Chambers emphasized that the airport expansion is vital for the region’s tourism, foreign direct investment (FDI) communities, and industries reliant on cargo infrastructure. A functional airport would address the logistical needs of the FDI community, support regional exporters, and foster tourism growth in line with the goals of Project Ireland 2040. “A thriving Waterford Airport means shorter transit times for international partners and direct benefits to local industries and exporters, who currently face extensive transport challenges,” the Chambers noted.
With tourism momentum building in the South East – including Failte Ireland’s commitment to Ireland’s Ancient East and a recent endorsement by Condé Nast, which named Waterford as a top destination in Ireland – direct flights would allow tourism to flourish, create new jobs, and open doors for businesses.
A Test of Government’s Commitment to Balanced Regional Growth
According to the South East Chambers Group “This project provides the government with an unmatched opportunity to foster regional economic growth with minimal state investment and ongoing delays suggest a political disregard for the socio-economic needs of our region and threaten to undermine a once-in-a-generation opportunity.”
The South East Chambers of Commerce call on the government to expedite a decision on this pivotal project and demonstrate a commitment to regional equality by supporting Waterford Airport’s expansion.
