SENATOR Aubrey McCarthy has told the Seanad that Donegal Airport must play a far greater role in Ireland’s national aviation strategy, warning that debate on the Dublin Airport (Passenger Capacity) Bill 2026 risks overlooking regional airports that already have capacity, infrastructure and community value to offer.
Speaking on an amendment he has tabled to the Bill, Senator McCarthy said Donegal Airport and other regional airports are runways sitting idle while Dublin strains at the seams.
He pointed to Donegal Airport’s continued service to thousands of passengers each year and its international recognition for its scenic location, arguing that it remains underutilised in national planning despite being a lifeline for the northwest and a gateway for tourism, business and regional connectivity.
The amendment would require the Minister to produce a report within 12 months examining how regional airports, Donegal in particular, can support national aviation needs, ease pressure on Dublin Airport and strengthen balanced regional development.
Senator McCarthy described the proposal as modest and cost free, saying it would simply ensure future aviation policy looks at the whole country, “and that absolutely includes Donegal Airport.”
Senator McCarthy, an Independent member of Seanad Éireann elected by Trinity College Dublin graduates, is a Naas businessman who also campaigns on social care, recovery services and homelessness.