Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister. It is disappointing that the airlines have not taken on board what the Government wanted. It is not good news. However, it is welcome that the €3 charge is being put into a specific fund. The Minister of State, Deputy Ring, alluded to it previously when I was in the Chamber.

The Minister referred to a significant percentage. Perhaps he would state what percentage of the fund will be invested in tourism. Is it intended for a specific area of tourism such as marketing or can people seek capital funding? How long will the scheme last? The Minister referred to going back to the airlines again next year. If they do what he requests, will the €3 tax be abolished and the fund come to an end? Perhaps the Minister would elaborate a little more on what the money will be spent on and specifically how much?

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