Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein)

I welcome the Minister's clarification. However, I would contend there is a substantial difference between restoration of lost routes and additional passengers. For example, we might see an airline reaching capacity on existing flights but not restoring routes. There is a difference there and when dealing with legislation one word can alter the whole spirit of particular provisions.

I also contest the Minister's assertion that the Government cannot create jobs. Governments in the past have created hundreds, thousands and tens of thousands of jobs, and this Administration could do the same tomorrow morning by recruiting more nurses or teachers. Nevertheless, I welcome this proposal and hope it works well. I still have concerns in that we are asking an entire sector to agree and there is a question mark about what will happen if one operator does not agree. However, I am sure common sense will prevail and we will review the provisions in due course.

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