Earlier this week on the wonderfully irascible Damien Tiernan's radio show, the Tánaiste's ministerial colleague from Waterford lamented the Government's mishandling of the business case for Waterford Airport particularly referencing the painful amount of time it is taking. Two months have been lost with time running out to progress this strategic project this year as planned. The slow walking of this project appears in stark contrast to the breakneck speed with which favoured projects in favoured constituencies are flashed through the Department's value for money processes. Without a review response soon, public procurement timelines will stall any hope of construction this year. The Minister of State was clear in her radio interview that the decision to fund this project is ultimately a political one. Does the Tánaiste support this vital project for the south east and if so, will he commit to using his power and influence to ensure that appropriate consideration is completed to the manner required to allow construction of this regional infrastructure as per the 2024 build schedule?

As the Deputy will be aware, €5 million was committed in 2019. There is an additional ask of Government and private investment is on the table as well. The matter is being examined by the Department of Transport.

The Government has been prompt in many other investments in Waterford as well. We have not been slow in allocating to other initiatives in the Waterford area. We will continue to do so, and also to try and attract inward investment into Waterford city and county, and in the region as well.

With respect, it is the review time.