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25 February 2009 MCGIMPSEY DEMANDS PUBLIC INQUIRY ON CITY AIRPORTSouth Belfast Ulster Unionist Assembly Member, Michael McGimpsey has called for a public inquiry to be held regarding the planning application for an extension of the runway at Belfast City Airport. Mr McGimpsey was speaking following a debate in the Northern Ireland Assembly earlier yesterday. In a statement Mr McGimpsey said: “I am pleased that the Assembly had the opportunity to debate such an important issue yesterday. “During the course of the debate I pointed out that Michael O Leary’s arrogant and dismissive comments towards the views of residents have only served to heighten concern around the planning application. “Local residents in South Belfast have real and genuine concerns and Mr O’Leary’s comments have left many people wondering if profit is the determining factor on this issue. “I also took the opportunity to highlight that concerns on likely increases in noise pollution and health and safety matters must be fully addressed in the course of the planning process. Mr McGimpsey continued: “The Assembly, by a majority, adopted an amendment which calls upon the Minister of the Environment to take note of the concerns around the planning application. “However in response to the debate, I believe the Minister needs to go further. By calling a public inquiry, the Minister can ensure that public confidence can be maintained and all issues will be fully addressed in a transparent manner”. In conclusion, Mr McGimpsey said: “Frankly, if it is good enough to call a public inquiry for a supermarket development on the edge of Belfast then I believe it is essential that a public inquiry occurs for a runway extension to an airport that is situated in the midst of a high residential area”.
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