Environment Minister Martin Cullen has said a replacement carrier for the South East Regional Airport at Waterford could be announced as early as next week.
Speaking in Waterford, Minister Cullen said talks are at an advanced stage with an airline to replace Euroceltic, who earlier this week pulled out of the South East's only airport. He said he was confident a deal would be done.
On the issue of Public Service Obligation routes, the Minister said the issue will be discussed at cabinet and a number of proposals regarding the future funding of regional airports and routes are being considered.
He said the Government and his department are fully behind the long-term future development and growth of the South East Regional Airport.