THE Irish Aviation Authority is to build an air traffic control and training centre at Shannon. The Minister of State for Transport, Mr Emmet Stagg, said the £40 million project was necessary to provide high quality air navigation for the growing volume of air traffic overflying Irish airspace.
He said Shannon had played a major role in transatlantic airline navigation. "This new centre will ensure this role is preserved and developed into the next century."
The new 70,000 sq ft building will cost £20 million to build and a further £20 million to equip. It is to be operational by 2001.
Mr Paul Sheane, chief executive of Shannon Development, yesterday welcomed the announcement.
"We are delighted to have been able to provide a prime site at Ballycasey Cross in Shannon town for this exciting new £40 million project."