Mr. Joe Thompson:

Many of the subjects discussed, including the strategic importance of Aer Lingus to the Irish Government and the impact on jobs in Ireland, are appropriate but are not for me. That is a matter for the Irish Government in its capacity as shareholder of Aer Lingus. I have come here to represent a perspective on behalf of a group of consumers whose voice we are not sure has been heard loudly enough through the process so far. There was a point about inward tourism and investment and greater choice drives down prices while improving levels of service. It creates demand and more business; it is a virtuous circle. Constraining that process in any way can only have the opposite effect. The opinions and concerns we are expressing today are aligned with the specific interests outlined by the Deputy.