Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

These are legitimate concerns. Through this legislation, the Government and I have no intention of interfering with the careers of the fine chief executives and directors at Cork, Shannon or Dublin Airports. There are a number of protections in the Bill which ensure this. Section 9(11) states:

Prior to their respective appointed days, a Chief Executive may be appointed to Cork Airport Authority and to Shannon Airport Authority by such directors appointed under subsections (8) and (9) (if any) and section 29 (inserted by paragraph 14 of the Schedule) of the Act of 1998 applies to such appointments.

The legislation does not intend to discommode the leaders of these airports who I hold in the highest regard. At the same time the plcs must be free to make chief executive appointments, which is envisaged in the legislation.

Section 12(12), negotiated in detail with the trade unions, gives the statutory guarantee that no employee of the company can be brought to lesser terms and conditions or services of remuneration than they have currently. In the case of the chief executive of Dublin Airport, I am informed that the terms and conditions have yet to be signed under the 1998 Act. I agree with Senators that the best security and consideration should be given to the three persons who have led the three airports for so long and so well. They have my confidence and admiration. The legislation seeks to protect them and ensure they will not do worse when the Bill is enacted. However, some freedom must be given to the boards to officially appoint chief executives. I will be helpful as I can to ensure the best agreement is reached between all parties concerned.