Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)

I am grateful to the Minister for the speech. I am pleased he is forwarding information; it is important to have that interaction. The Minister said in that speech that when examining the possible solution to a problem, the most intractable problems are often solved by the power of lateral thinking. With regard to the problems generated in Shannon, what action has been taken by the Minister and his Department on overcoming the concerns of the various groups, employees and business organisations? The Minister advised that people should move forward in a positive way but what has he done since the two Heathrow slots were transferred to Belfast? Has he met with the groups? Is there a Government sub-committee dealing with the matter? What are the possibilities for overcoming this?

According to newspaper reports no replacement airline has taken up the vacant slots in Shannon. What has happened since this happened? The Minister talks about positivity but I have not seen it. The concerns still exist. The employees were recently in Brussels seeking guidance and support. If we are to think positively, the Minister, his Department and the Government must think in the same way. I do not see that happening. What has happened about overcoming the problems that so many people and groups believe the loss of the Shannon slots will create?

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