Minister for Finance, Máirtín Ó Muilleoir has said he wants to seek an early review of Air Passenger Duty (APD).
The Minister was speaking as he visited Belfast International Airport today, en route to New York.
The Minister said: “I met with International Airport management this morning and was encouraged to note the recent network growth and development at the Airport, resulting in an additional 500 on-site jobs.
“It's my view that the Executive should have full control of Air Passenger Duty so that we can make decisions in the interest of our community in terms of tourism, business and job creation. We need an early review of the ongoing application of APD by London on all short haul routes across Britain and Europe.”
During his visit the Minister will fulfil personal commitments and undertake ministerial engagements with key Irish American leaders.
In New York, the Minister will be meeting with Loretta Brennan Glucksman and John Kiernan, President of the NYC Bar Association.
Notes to editors:
1. No funds from the public purse are being used to cover the costs of this trip.
2. Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Finance Press Office on Tel: 028 9081 6724 or Tel: 028 9081 6895. Out of Office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.