Mary White (Fianna Fail)

Some 95% of business is about the human beings involved. Growing a business is all about human contact with employees and their ability to sell the business. It is important for the new boards and chairmen to manage and look after the employees of the three different airports and allow them to reach their full potential in developing their skills.

I concur with the Minister's remarks about section 12:

The restructuring proposals will not result in any downgrading of the terms and conditions of Aer Rianta employees on transfer to the new independent airport authorities. In line with commitments given to ICTU, appropriate provisions have been included in section 12 of the legislation to this effect.

I enter the caveat, however, that the Minister must spell out the position to the management of the new authorities, about whose fantastic business talent we have heard. I received a call from someone in Shannon today asking me to look after the interests of the staff there. They have faith in me. The Minister must tell the management how brilliant are the employees in Shannon. I have dealt with them and know them. I met them morning, noon and night for 22 years. The airport was a window on Europe for my business when it started up.

A Chathaoirligh, how much time do I have left?