Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for his reply and I accept that international and internal access routes are not directly the concern of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. Nevertheless, the matter is of concern to the Department. Tourism cannot exist unless access is good. It is crucial that as the market contracts, we maintain our links with the outside world.

Recent developments include the reduction of services on several routes. Some routes are being cancelled altogether, including the important air route to the Middle East, which was initially announced to great fanfare by Aer Lingus. More recently, I heard of the effective cancellation of the plans for a new runway by Dublin Airport Authority, which was vital to the China strategy.

Some years ago in Dún Laoghaire there were five Stena Line departures every day to Holyhead. Now, there is only one, the future of which is apparently in question. The Cork to Swansea route is gone, although I heard there is a possibility that it will be restored. Decisions have been made about postponing the independence of the airports at Cork and Shannon. All these factors are inhibiting growth. Even when people arrive in the country, there are many impediments to good transport and roads. Today, I heard of plans for roads being dropped, which were important in accessing various airports, including the State airports. Is the Minister talking to other Ministers about such issues? I understand growth in Dublin Airport this year was as low as 2.5%, and it was the only airport showing any growth. The Minister, Deputy Cullen, will remember from his time as Minister for Transport that, at the time, the annual growth of at least 10% was forecast. The new terminal was built in expectation of such growth and the airport now has capacity. Is Dublin Airport Authority seeking further business?

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