asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will take steps to ensure that an international air-link is provided at Kerry County Airport, Farranfore, County Kerry.

59.

asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will ask Aer Lingus to run a special service from Farranfore airport, County Kerry, to Dublin during the summer months.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 59 together.

I have received applications from Irish airlines for the operation of air services from Farranfore, County Kerry, to Dublin and to Luton.

I am examining these applications, taking particular account of the facilities and standards required for the operation of regular international services at regional airports, and I will announce my decision as early as possible.

Is the Minister of the opinion that the facilities at Farranfore Airport are standard at present or do certain improvements need to be undertaken? Given the importance of County Kerry in terms of tourism and the Minister's efforts to increase inward traffic this season, will assistance be forthcoming from the Department if it appears that improvements such as widening or lengthening the runway or installing additional navigational aids are necessary aids?

As I indicated in my reply, I am at present examining these applications. I used Farranfore once myself and they landed me safely and got me away safely. Deputy Spring has used it on a greater number of occasions and I understand his interest in the development of it. Applications are under consideration. That is all I can say as of now. Fairly substantial help has already been given for the development of Farranfore. I get very cagey when there is a question of spending money, knowing the circumstances that we find ourselves in.

The Minister is examining the proposal. Can the Minister tell us whether, from his preliminary examination, the airport has adequate facilities to allow it to be used for a link through Dublin to Luton?

I did not say that I had finished my preliminary examination.