Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

Senator Ross asked me about the possibility of a second terminal at Dublin Airport. I have made it clear that I believe a second terminal is needed and that it should be an independent terminal. The Government is examining this matter at the moment and in the near future we will be able to make a final decision about it. The Senator asked me about the position of Aer Rianta on this matter. I understand its preference is for a fully Aer Rianta-owned terminal. The company accepts that extra capacity is needed but its preference is for a fully State-owned terminal building. That is my understanding of its position as conveyed to me over the past year or so. I would like to bring this matter to a conclusion sooner rather than later in order to provide clarity in aviation policy.

There are a number of issues to be dealt with, including this legislation, restructuring and the possibility of a new terminal. Senators Dooley and Daly also raised issues to do with Shannon Airport yesterday and spoke strongly about Aer Lingus's plans for Shannon. I am determined to deal with all these aviation issues as soon as possible so that there can be maximum certainty when the new authorities come into place. I will try to keep up the pressure to have all these issues dealt with in the weeks ahead.