James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I support the Chairman's comments, which are spot on. Mr. Walsh may be able to give a read from a European level or international basis on something to which I have been trying to get established answers but have found incredibly difficult. I refer to Ireland's connection with the United States of America and the reopening of the air bridge across the Atlantic to North America, including Canada and the United States. Where does he believe that is going at present? Is there any evidence to suggest the Commission is close to brokering a deal to lift the presidential ban in order that European passengers may fly to the United States? I raised the question of the Schengen area in the Dáil and Deputy McNamara joined in that evening as well. What is Mr. Walsh's knowledge around diplomatic efforts by the Commission to allow transatlantic passage for Irish passengers to the United States? Will Ireland be excluded as a non-Schengen country and should we, as the transport committee, be watching this?