Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I asked a question and it was responded to by a Deputy. I thought that was a little unusual.

I am keen to tease out how it is that Virgin representatives have come before the committee today. Has Virgin made a submission to the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport in Ireland? Could Mr. Thompson provide us with some insight into what engagement Virgin has had with the relevant Irish stakeholders? For example, can Mr. Thompson provide us with some detail of how Virgin believes that its position might impact on the business and tourism sector in Ireland? Can Virgin provide us with some insight on what level of engagement the company has had with stakeholders here, including political stakeholders?

Let us consider the plans of Virgin for the future. Let us suppose that this offer is not accepted and any new indicative offer, if it is lodged, is not accepted either. Does Virgin have a plan B, C or D for Aer Lingus in terms of growing a relationship with Aer Lingus in future?

Has Virgin any plans in respect of the use of Dublin Airport? I know from previous engagements at the committee that there is excess capacity in Dublin Airport at the moment. Several airlines are looking at the possibility of developing a north Atlantic hub out of Dublin. Has Virgin looked at that?

Mr. Thompson said he does not want the Irish travelling public to have this issue proceed unchecked. That is a little unfair. Mr. Thompson may or may not be aware that this committee spent weeks in advance of the Government decision engaging with everyone who had an interest in this from Irish point of view. Mr. Thompson may wish to reflect on that.