Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

The facility must be delivered in an efficient and reliable manner, one that will encourage the airlines to continue to operate through the airport. It must be cost effective and ensure the low-cost model which now pertains throughout the aviation sector reduces the cost.

The Mullarkey report has been mentioned in a very selective way during this debate. It refers to an independent and competitive terminal. However, it also states that in the medium term when there is an increase from €17 million to €30 million, there must be an increase in passenger charges in order to sustain the two terminals throughout that period. I am not sure the airlines accept this measure, which is a critical point that is being missed. The airlines are the airport's customers. One could not go to Michael O'Leary or the new chief executive of Aer Lingus and suggest an increase in charges at Dublin Airport.

If charges are not increased a situation will arise with regard to security. One must increase security levels to reduce the level of queuing, but who will pay for it? The traffic passing through must be able to pay for the facilities which is difficult because of the low-cost model. This must be done in a way that does not compromise security. I do not have time to deal with this aspect, but Senator Wilson will do so later.

The solution is not as simple as that proffered by the Opposition. There are very complex issues with which the Government is dealing. When the Government introduces its strategic plan for the future of the aviation sector with a particular reference to Dublin Airport, I have no doubt that it will be comprehensive, holistic and will look to future needs and plans; it will not be a knee-jerk reaction driven by some private agenda with a view to making vast sums of money at Dublin Airport.