Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)

All political parties welcome the passing of this important Bill. I am delighted it has gone through the House without any problems. When it is enacted, it will be very good for the mid-west region. I hope those using commercial and private airlines will avail of the preclearance facility. I encourage the Minister to initiate a similar arrangement to provide for cargo preclearance. I spoke earlier about the Lynx Group, which is interested in this area and in the Shannon region. There is huge industry in this area. There is huge potential in the hub area. As the Minister continues his deliberations with the transport secretary, I urge him to maintain his efforts in respect of cargo preclearance, which could be the icing on the cake for Shannon Airport. I hope the facility will be successful. I know it will be. It will be good for the region and I am delighted it has made its passage through the House here tonight.

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