I seek an update on the strategic development zone at Ireland West Airport Knock as the draft Mayo county development plan is nearing finalisation. I know the Tánaiste is familiar with this designation, having visited Knock Airport on many occasions. I note that the draft county development plan and the overall development of the planning scheme is expected to deliver the following gross floor space: more than 95,000 sq. m for commercial business and enterprise activities; more than 44,000 sq. m for aviation, economic development and services; and 11,000 sq. m for hotel accommodation and conference facilities. I note that the connectivity provided by the presence of the airport significantly broadens north-east Mayo's transport network capability, providing many economic and social benefits. In essence, it acts as an economic driver for the region and has a major impact on the social and economic infrastructure of the surrounding areas. What is needed next is seed funding and opportunities for capital investment. This designation has enormous potential and should not be delayed.

I agree that the strategic development zone, SDZ, around Ireland West Airport Knock has real potential. Perhaps we will have a chance to discuss it a little more tomorrow, when I will be in the county. We have seen the success of the zone around Shannon Airport, and I think something similar could be done around Knock. I am told that the preparation of the planning scheme for the SDZ is a function of Mayo County Council. Further to the making of the scheme, the planning authority must grant permission for any development which is consistent with the planning scheme, with no further appeal to An Bord Pleanála allowed. In January of this year the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage received a request from Mayo County Council seeking an endorsement for the inclusion of the SDZ scheme for Knock within the scope of the eligibility for European cohesion funding as part of the European Regional Development Fund, ERDF, operational programme running between now and 2027. While there is no developed proposal for ERDF funding in respect of the SDZ at present, there is initial scope for a feasibility study to set out a plan for future phased investment, which may include ERDF support. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has offered that an official would work with Mayo County Council and the regional assembly to scope this out. That may form a future application for ERDF funding.