Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is abundantly clear that we need a strong and coherent plan for aviation with regard to the short-term challenges, which are very severe. We have many hearings in this committee over recent weeks, particularly with regard to Shannon Airport.

It is abundantly clear that we need state aid for operational and capital expenditure in order to guarantee strategic routes and provide support for Shannon Airport. The economic plan that will be published in the coming weeks presents an opportunity to underpin those strategic routes, particularly the Heathrow, Boston and New York services. Those three services are operated by Aer Lingus and the Minister must step in and underpin them because we must have that global connectivity which is vital for Shannon airport and for business and tourism in the region. The Minister must make provision in the economic plan to provide that vital support. A new chairperson of the board must be appointed and there must be a change in aviation policy such that there is a recognition of Shannon Airport as a driver of economic activity in the region. I ask the Minister to respond to those specific points.