92 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Transport his aviation policy; the reason there is no mention of an aviation policy in Transport 21 2005-2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2255/11]

My policy is to ensure that the aviation sector supports Ireland's economic and social goals in a safe, competitive, cost-effective and sustainable manner and to ensure maximum connectivity for Ireland with the rest of the world. In doing so now, the challenge is to ensure that Irish aviation is well positioned to take advantage of economic recovery. Regarding Transport 21 2005-2015, this is a capital investment framework. It provides for capital investment in road and public transport infrastructure and for investment in regional airports.

Transport 21 included a provision of €100 million to support capital investment under a Regional Airports Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme at the six regional airports. Following EU State aid clearance for the scheme and assessment of applications, in February 2007, the Government approved expenditure of €86m for specific projects at the airports. However, the current difficulties with the public finance have impacted on the roll out of the scheme and since July 2008, grant aid has been limited to those projects or project elements that were already contractually committed in July 2008 or urgently required safety work.