Sir, - Yur report on the call for an upgrade of Galway Airport (October 22nd) stated that Mr Chris Hayes of Thermo King is aware of two companies that decided not to locate in Galway because of its inaccessibility to Europe and Britain. I would add that the city is also losing considerable tourist revenue for the same reason.
Some years ago I worked as a travel advisor for Bord Failte in its London office. Frequently, I received enquiries from people wishing to take a short/weekend break in Ireland. Prospective visitors to Galway and the west opted to go to Dublin, Cork or Limerick because they naturally preferred to take a direct flight to their destination, rather than having the difficulty, in terms of time and expense, of an additional commuter flight if they were to fly on to the City of the Tribes.
Galway has lost, and will continue to lose, considerable tourist revenue, until its airport is upgraded and it has direct air services to both Britain and Europe. - Yours, etc.,
Oranmore, Co Galway.