Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I hate to make any response to Senator Finucane but obviously the Taoiseach is doing something right when he keeps getting re-elected.

I have no wish to become involved in the debate on Aer Lingus. I will leave that to my esteemed colleague, the Fianna Fáil spokesperson in that area, Senator Dooley, who, I am sure, will have something to say on it. As somebody who supports Aer Lingus, we should think about the staff at this time and the uncertainty surrounding their futures. I hope the issue will be resolved.

I also agree with the comments expressed regarding the unfortunate Ms Margaret Hassan. Like my colleagues, I too believe that, where there is even a modicum of hope that the video report is not totally accurate, we should reserve comment. I understand an expert analysis of that video is being done as we speak.

Will the Leader consider debating, in the context of tourism, an issue which was raised over the weekend by The Observer columnist, Henry McDonald, namely, funding for the Linenhall Library in Belfast? I was shocked to discover that one of the most important collections of memorabilia relating to the conflict in the North is being closed down in the Linenhall Library because of lack of funding and that, until such time as funding is received from Belfast City Council, it will remain closed. This is one of the most important collections of its type on the island and attracts large numbers of tourists into Belfast. I support the point Mr. McDonald made and ask the Leader to convey it to the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism. Tourism Ireland, an all-island body in the business of attracting tourism, should immediately consider unlocking sufficient funds to ensure this important collection is reopened to the public.