Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

The loss of strategic aviation connectivity was one of the most disturbing potential implications of Aer Lingus's so-called Project Greenfield plan. The recent re-opening of four key routes between Shannon and British airports was a welcome development, but Shannon has been hard hit in terms of declining connectivity, particularly in respect of its US links, since it has lost key Aer Lingus and US carrier connections. For this reason, I have asked the Oireachtas transport committee to urge the Departments of Transport and Enterprise, Trade and Innovation to prioritise the development of enterprise supports for Shannon and the mid-west region.

I warmly commend my colleague on her outstanding proposals in respect of revitalising tourism and on her motion, which is important to tens of thousands of workers. Where transport is concerned, will the Government examine the air travel tax seriously during the next five or six months?

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