Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)

Will the Minister ensure the provisions in the plan which I understand is a proposal to spend €10 million a year on the promotion of the Shannon area are put in place as soon as possible? If the current routes are not supported, they could be withdrawn. The Minister may be aware that American Airlines and Air Canada will cease operations in October and Delta Airlines which I understand operates flights to Atlanta, an important hub for Florida and southern USA, will cease operations on that route this winter. This will be a major blow to Shannon Airport. One major hotel in the Shannon area has had cancellations from 11 group tours, representing approximately 2,000 bed nights, due to the uncertainty regarding flights into the region in 2008. I appeal to the Minister to ensure this fund is put in place immediately as, otherwise, there will be further cancellations and uncertainty.

A recent programme on American television, "Where in the world is Matt Lauer?", was watched by 7 million people. It showed beautiful images of the west of Ireland but, at the end of the programme, suggested that to get to Ireland, visitors should come through Dublin Airport. There was no mention of Shannon Airport, which was an opportunity lost.

Will the Minister indicate whether he has the information I seek? How many seats are available in summer 2007 coming into Shannon Airport and how many will be available in 2008? That is what matters.

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