Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their presentations, which were clear and easily understood. It is a sensible approach to rebuilding. I compliment them on their initiative. They have put forward a very compelling case, which is accompanied by a strong business plan. It is innovative and shows vision and ambition, which is what we require at this difficult time. It deserves moral and practical support and I have no doubt the committee will endorse the report, put its authority behind it and seek Government intervention, as outlined in the report.

We mentioned Clare, Limerick and Galway. It is also important to remember that Shannon is of significant importance to Tipperary, an area I represent, and north Tipperary in particular. A large number of our people work in Shannon or rely on the Shannon hub for connectivity. In particular, Lough Derg and our tourism sector feed off Shannon Airport and the Shannon region. Many involved in our business sector rely on connectivity through Shannon to run their enterprises properly. I listened to the Tánaiste last week in the Dáil put forward a suggestion that we should promote Shannon as a cargo hub. This indicates that there is Government support for that initiative and the witnesses should pursue this in a more formal manner and possibly make a business plan for that particular project within the business plan. I thank the witnesses for their presentations today, which were very professional, and assure them of our support.