Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister to the House and congratulate him on his appointment as Minister for Transport and wish him well in that position. I welcome also his officials.

Aer Lingus is an important Irish asset and a most important symbol for this country. Since 1936 Aer Lingus has served us well. As an island nation we need first-class air communications. People trust their national carriers all over the world and we are no different in Ireland. We cannot, however, be complacent. Aer Lingus must have a sound financial footing and be profitable. Great work has been done to turn the company around from being a financial basket case into a sound profitable company. Under the stewardship of Willie Walsh, Aer Lingus——