Mr. Sean Doyle:

We implemented every single guideline and public health policy urgently and effectively across our airline and across our operation. The act of travelling is very safe, as has been supported by evidence from the International Air Transport Association, IATA, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, EASA. I am highlighting how much of an outlier Ireland is compared with other European Union states. That is significantly disadvantaging Irish airlines. Highlighting that point provokes a very healthy debate. Legislators should consider that debate and balance the needs of the economy and the importance of restoring air travel against the very important needs of public health. We are not being one-dimensional. We are providing a very healthy comparison with countries that are managing containment and opening up air travel. These countries understand the need to balance the economy against the need to maintain public health and to contain the virus. The position the Deputy has outlined is not one we have taken. We have been very balanced in our approach and in our comments.