Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

On airports generally, rather than hotels, comfort was offered to both Cork and Shannon airports in respect of the financial status of their respective authorities, as the Minister is aware. When the State Airports Bill was passed, everybody understood the authorities would be free of debt, if established. There is great concern in Cork that this position may have changed, as I am sure the Minister is aware. There are indications that the Minister is of a different view to the people in Cork. This may be because of overruns associated with the terminal or losses pertaining to some of the assets of the former Aer Rianta.

In fairness to Cork people generally, and to allow the authority to prepare its plan, it is important that those concerned know precisely what they are facing. Has the Minister changed his mind? Has the Government changed its mind regarding the setting up of Cork and Shannon airport authorities without debt? Is the corollary such that any outstanding debt would remain with Dublin Airport?

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