Trevor Sargent (Dublin North, Green Party)

I am sure the Tánaiste is anxious that the partnership talks succeed. In that regard, I ask her to be mindful of the high level of interest in the future of Aer Rianta. The State airports Bill, which is due for publication before the summer recess, might be put on hold while we await the outcome of the talks rather than inflame any views expressed that might not be helpful to the partnership talks. Will she take that on board from a responsible point of view in that it will not be helpful to proceed with the state airports Bill while discussions are ongoing? It may need to be changed in light of those discussions.

Will the mercantile marine (amendment) Bill be given a date even though it has been said it is not possible to indicate one? There is an ongoing problem of flags of convenience at sea and the cutting of corners in terms of safety ironically arising from competition which is promoted by the Tánaiste. Considerable risks are being taken and unless priority is given to this Bill, they may set back policies on the marine environment for many years. Will the Tánaiste indicate a date for the publication of the mercantile marine (amendment) Bill?

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