Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate and share the Deputy's concern for tourism. I am delighted to report that since the Government made up of Fianna Fáil, the Green Party and Independents was replaced by this Administration, the number of international visitors to Ireland has increased by 1 million, with further increases expected. There has been a great deal of traffic at Dublin and Shannon airports in particular, as well as Knock, in recent months. Passenger numbers at Shannon, for example, are up by more than 6% this year, which is very positive.

There is currently no threat of strike action in regard to the pensions dispute. A strike is threatened, however, in respect of rostering arrangements at Aer Lingus, which, if it occurs, will be particular to that company. The level of competition that exists among airlines means that most passengers will have other options. The threat of strike action at Aer Lingus is being used to put pressure on the company to find a resolution to the rostering issue. I encourage Aer Lingus management and IMPACT to make full use of the Labour Relations Commission and the Labour Court to come to an agreement. I am sure it can be done.

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