Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)

I seek the adjournment of Dáil Éireann under Standing Order 31 to discuss the following matter of urgent public and national concern, namely, the recent unwarranted increases in baggage charges of multiples of the inflation rate by airlines Aer Lingus and Ryanair, further boosting their record profits at the expense of the travelling public; the scandalous 71% hike in baggage charges by Ryanair since January 2006 that are by no means discretionary for most passengers, contrary to Ryanair's public statement; the suggestion by Aer Lingus that it is considering charging passengers for seat selection; and the simultaneous nature of the announcement of the increases leading to the suspicion of a cartel among Ireland's low cost airlines.

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