Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Government is absolutely committed to Shannon Airport, Cork Airport and all the airports and ensuring we can protect them, particularly given the impact of Covid-19. Deputies and Senators should always reflect on the policies they announce one month as opposed to what they announce the second month. I am amazed at how everybody who was advocating for zero travel has suddenly had a complete change of mind. I understand it but decisions have consequences too.

Covid-19 has been the main factor disrupting travel and undermining the aviation industry. It was not governments or anything else. Deputies jump up and down and say it is the Government's fault. Covid-19 has disrupted travel. Mandatory hotel quarantine was brought in. The House urged the Government to bring it in much more quickly. The task force was a commitment in the programme for Government for the wider Shannon development area. It is a good thing and will yield good results.

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