It is in Ireland's long-term strategic interest to allow the continued use of Shannon. Were we to refuse this in the purest terms, some people would welcome that stance. In the long-term, however, it would greatly damage this country. Like other speakers, I am of the view that there is nothing to be gained by refusing facilities at Shannon to the United States but that there is an immense amount to be lost by blocking access. The Opposition must bear in mind that our long-term strategic interest should be paramount.