Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)

Not only am I concerned about that matter, I am also concerned about the negative impact of the decision made. The perception is that Aer Lingus is the national carrier and provides a degree of security for Shannon Airport and that, therefore, industrialists invest in the Shannon region. This decision means that not only has the planned expansion of existing businesses been put on hold, but future investment is also being lost to the region, which is very serious.

I am supporting the amendment moved by my colleague and the Atlantic Connectivity Alliance. The Minister should return to the real world, take a firm grip and deal with the matter and forget about his smart-aleck remarks and change his attitude towards this side of the House. When he referred to my party, he was referring to me. I was never like that with him. I always had the highest respect for him.

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