Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I was merely referring to an article in the Sunday newspapers resulting from a freedom of information request that stated the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donovan, was present. It seems somewhat coincidental that the Minister met the group advocating a private terminal at Dublin Airport and two months later, announces he is going out tender to seek expressions of interest. Perhaps it is coincidental but I take the Minister's word on that. I certainly hope he will not be influenced by lobbyists.

I raise the issue of the capacity at Dublin Airport, which is now stretched beyond capacity. One of the big restrictions is the need for construction and implementation of the second runway. This is an important instrument. The Minister correctly states it is important that he gets it right. It is important it is robust and that the various stakeholders have their opinions heard. That being said, the Minister promised during the past number of Question Times that it was imminent but it has not been forthcoming. The Minister still cannot confirm to the House whether or not primary legislation is required, and I wonder why. Surely he needs to have a deadline date when he can indicate to the House when this instrument will be ready and whether or not primary legislation is required.

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