Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I was approached in 1979 and asked if I would become chairman of an interim board for An Post. Some ten people were asked to become members of the board. I do not believe we would have accepted a place on an interim board which already had in place a business plan in terms of what was to be done and how it was to be done. If this plan is to work, in particular for Shannon and Cork, ownership must rest with the boards. I do not understand the logic of suggesting we provide a business plan which we then hand over to a board to put into operation.

It is the responsibility of boards to draw up business plans. I support the Minister's suggestion that the business plan be owned by the boards to be established. However, I disagree with the Minister about the structure being used. I want Cork and Shannon Airports to have separate boards but I believe they would benefit from operating under the umbrella of Dublin Airport. However, that is a separate issue. The boards must have ownership of their accounts and plans. I do not believe such boards would accept responsibility for merely putting in place what Aer Rianta or the Minister has already decided.

The Minister has got it right in this case. The business plan is, as Senator Dardis stated, not the same as a risk evaluation. If Shannon and Cork Airports are to work, then ownership must lie with the individual boards. I would have difficulty supporting this amendment as I believe the Minister is correct on this one.