Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 17:

In page 9, before section 8, to insert the following new section:

9.—Within 6 weeks of the passing of this Act, the Minister shall do one or both of the following—

(i) lay a Report before both Houses of the Oireachtas, or

(ii) appear before an Oireachtas Committee

to confirm whether the provisions of this Bill will effect events of default regarding Aer Rianta's financial obligations, and detailing how and what measures he proposes to take to address this.

This amendment arises from recent reports regarding the possibility of creditors recalling loans sooner than was originally agreed or revising the terms of loans because Aer Rianta will be changed from one company to three separate companies. The Minister addressed this issue in the House yesterday and said he had received no correspondence to support these claims. I asked that any information on this matter be made public and that was not done so I will press this amendment. There is much concern because we are dealing with debts of almost €500 million and although I accept the Minister's word, I would be far happier if there was some supporting documentation. The Minister also dropped blatant hints that the leaked letter which alleged this problem came from within Aer Rianta itself and perhaps he might clarify this assertion today. It would be worrying if the information did indeed come from Aer Rianta, especially if that information is incorrect. It is unhelpful to all concerned. It has captured the public's imagination and is receiving extensive press coverage and it is the responsibility of Members of this House to ensure there is no difficulty down the line when the three separate authorities are established.