Chambers Ireland has welcomed the Government’s decision to approve draft legislation removing the 32 million passenger cap at Dublin Airport, describing the move as a significant boost for business, trade and tourism.
The long-standing cap has been a point of concern for the business community in recent years, with industry representatives arguing that it constrained Ireland’s international connectivity at a time of growing demand for air travel.
Chief Executive Ian Talbot said the decision sends a strong signal to global partners and investors.
“The long-standing passenger cap has held back our connectivity over the past number of years. The decision to remove it is an important step that will signal to international partners and investors that Ireland is open for business,” he said.
According to Chambers Ireland, lifting the cap will deliver substantial benefits to businesses across the country, not just in the capital.
Many firms in regional locations rely on efficient and reliable air links to access export markets, attract inward investment and facilitate business travel.
Talbot said the change would generate “meaningful gains for trade, investment and employment” nationwide, while also supporting the tourism sector.
Increased capacity at Dublin Airport is expected to strengthen visitor numbers and benefit hospitality, retail and other tourism-dependent enterprises.
However, Chambers Ireland also stressed the need for parallel investment in infrastructure. Talbot urged the Government to accelerate delivery of MetroLink and other sustainable public transport projects to ensure high-capacity, reliable connections to the airport.
Ian Talbot, CEO of Chambers Ireland. (Pic: Fran Veale)
He said advancing such infrastructure is critical to supporting housing development, meeting climate commitments and providing a modern transport system capable of serving a growing economy.
The draft legislation will now progress through the Oireachtas, with business groups watching closely as the reform moves to the next stage.