Mr. Michael McGrail:

I thank the Senator for his questions. As I mentioned to Deputy Troy, it is positive that four places are available on the board. I have been assured by the Department that they will be filled. Regarding the Shanwick, what is critically important is that under the 1996 agreement, British Air Traffic Control looks after the air traffic control in that space and the IAA looks after communication. While I would not be technically competent in the area, I understand that communication is based on high frequency systems, which are now being replaced by other systems. As the Senator suggested, the IAA needs to ensure we continue to own that communications aspect of the Shanwick. Given the short period I have been with the authority, I do not have a great volume of detail on that but I know that the relationship between the IAA and its British equivalent is good. I also know that both the IAA and the Department are anxious to ensure that if a new agreement is required, it will solidify the current situation in terms of our role in the Shanwick.

The Senator mentioned Dublin Airport and the north runway. I believe what he said was directed at the committee-----