Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

I entered public life 16 years ago and have attended many meetings regarding health care, schools, closure of hospitals and siting of incinerators. However, at the meeting I attended in Shannon this summer I never saw such anger and frustration from representative groups and those workers whose jobs depend on the future of Shannon Airport. From the Minister's speech it is obvious he is not connected to how the people of the Shannon region feel on this matter.

The Aer Lingus decision also affects south County Tipperary where many people are annoyed by it. This link has been in place since Shannon Airport was established. If the former Taoiseach, Seán Lemass, were alive today, he would be supporting this side of the House and would not be happy with the Minister's speech on this motion.

Three courses of action are open to the Minister. I am at a loss as to why the vacancies on the Aer Lingus board of directors have not been filled. Two directors should be appointed to the board by the Minister, as demanded by this side of the House and Aer Lingus workers. If he did that, he would be applauded by all involved.

After making these appointments, an EGM should be called to make a decision on the Heathrow service from Shannon Airport. That is the proper way to do business but the Minister is allowing the situation, that has not changed since his meeting in Shannon, to continue. There has been plenty of media coverage but still nothing has happened. Representative groups from the Shannon area attending in the Visitors Gallery are amazed this situation has been allowed to continue. It is up to the Minister and Government backbenchers to make those appointments and make the change which will affect generations in the region.

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