The Department of Transport has set out more details of its plans for the proposed break-up of Aer Rianta.
In a framework document presented to the Aer Rianta Board, and which has been seen by RTÉ News, officials propose the existence of three independent airport authorities at Dublin, Cork and Shannon.
The document sets out the Department's preferred framework within which it would like to advance the implementation of the restructuring at Aer Rianta.
The document says legislation to implement the restructuring will provide for the existence of three independent authorities.
It states that there is a need to prepare revised medium to long term financial projections for Cork and Shannon airports as standalone entities prior to the finalisation of legislation.
It also says there is a need to prepare 10-year revised financial projections for Dublin Airport based on alternative scenarios, involving the transfer of Cork and Shannon first.
The department document says 'the financial forecasts for Dublin should not factor in the consequences of any potential Government decision to approve the construction of a second independent terminal at the airport'.
These revelations are likely to draw an interesting response from Aer Rianta trade unions who have suspended industrial action pending the outcome of more talks on the future of the state airports.
