Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)

I seek the adjournment of the Dáil under Standing Order 32 to discuss a matter of extreme importance, namely, that the Minister for Transport would emphasise the importance of reinstating the Shannon-Heathrow link in his deliberations with Aer Lingus. This connectivity is pivotal to job creation in the region. The jobs announced yesterday for Ennis by the US-based Microsemi company as a result of the availability of a daily direct transatlantic service points to the vital role played by access in attracting foreign direct investment. Aer Lingus's cost base at Shannon Airport has reduced significantly as a result of the forward thinking sacrifices of its staff at the airport and, coupled with the recent announcement of a reduction in the fuel surcharge, this is an excellent opportunity for the Minister to put forward the case for reinstating this service.

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