Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I was making the comments to give some context to the witness being asked questions about why Virgin Atlantic has not provided services to Ireland and what services it is providing in other jurisdictions around the world. For me there was a very narrow focus in terms of asking the witness to come before the committee and it was based on documentation he sent to the committee clearly outlining a potential issue for consumers. Mr. Thompson's motivation in terms of his commercial interest is irrelevant but he has identified a problem which, if it is not properly addressed with remedies, is an issue for consumers. That is the only reason I sought the witness here. I thank him for doing that. He has done a good job of outlining that and it should be clear to him, with the reaction of some of the committee members, that he has done a good job.

The witness has spoken about presenting a paper to the European Commission which, using his considerable aviation experience, will set out a series of remedies he believes have potential to protect those consumers. Will the witness circulate that document to this committee when it is done, or at an appropriate time? It would be helpful in preparation of the members' report. As an Opposition spokesperson, my desire is to try to ensure the Government gives due consideration to those issues, and to the potential solutions, if it decides to go ahead with selling its share. That would certainly help the people, even if the Government wants to hide from the concerns expressed by the witness.