Limerick City and County Council today welcomed the announcement by Ryanair to open 8 new routes at Shannon Airport and expand its existing passenger numbers from 450,000 to 750,000 per annum.
Mayor of Limerick Cllr. Kathleen Leddin described the new services as “a shot in the arm” for Shannon Airport and the wider Region.
The Mayor said the positive developments that have taken place at the airport since autonomy was secured earlier this year have enabled management at the facility to expand short and long haul operations.
She continued: “These new services, once operational in April 2014, will help to retain existing and create new jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector as well as provide quality access to important markets in France and Germany in particular. The onward connectivity options provided in Munich, Paris and Berlin’s main airports are considerable and I believe Ryanair’s services to these cities will be very much welcomed by the local business community in Limerick.”
Cllr. John Sheahan, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council called on the people of Limerick and the wider business community to support the new services.
“It is of vital importance for Limerick and the Shannon Region that all of Ryanair’s services are supported if they are to remain economically viable. Our tourism promotion companies such as the Limerick Marketing Company and Fáilte Ireland must also market these new services so as to ensure Shannon Airport becomes a key gateway to the West of Ireland for continental visitors. We have been presented with an excellent opportunity today to capitalise on the recent growth in the continental tourism market,” added Cllr. Sheahan.
