Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I thank the Senators for their contributions which were most positive. This is important legislation which provides a uniform international legal framework for aircraft financing. It will greatly assist the growth of air travel and continuing safety improvements through the use of newer aircraft with the most modern systems. I join with others in congratulating those who were successful in bringing the international registry here. It shows the depth and experience and the quality of the people available here that this was the right location. The use of helicopters was mentioned by Senator Paddy Burke. Where helicopters may land is a matter for the planning authorities and not my Department, and regulations on the safe operation of helicopters come under the remit of the Irish Aviation Authority.

Senator Paddy Burke and others referred to the fact that Aviareto will be based at Shannon. As there seems to be some confusion on the matter I wish to clarify that as I stated in my speech, Aviareto will be based in Dún Laoghaire at SITA's existing offices. The confusion may arise because there are proposals to base the Irish Aviation Authority at Shannon. The principles of what Senators stated regarding regional development and the relocation of company assets throughout the country to create economic activity are still valid.

Senator Ryan concentrated on the nations that have ratified the Cape Town Convention and Protocol. The list of those countries attempting to get on the international registry illustrates its worth as those are probably the countries that would have the greatest difficulty in making it attractive to finance aircraft. I would not read anything into the fact that other European countries have not as yet ratified the convention, as I presume they are, similar to us, in the process of moving it through the system. The competition faced by this country to base the registry here was significant, which also indicates its importance. The benefits of ratification for Irish airlines will be significant and immediate.

The point was raised that the convention also deals with space assets. This is intended to facilitate the commercial operation of communications satellites as opposed to any military operations and while that is in the protocol, it is not in this legislation as it has not yet been agreed at European level. It will follow on from the convention and we will deal with it when it does.

I do not have to hand the information required to answer the question on the Airbus A380 but I can assure Senator Leyden that the developments happening at our airports make it essential for them to be able to deal with aircraft of this size and capacity. These new aircraft will be more environmentally friendly than current models as they will be fuel efficient and, as they are able to carry a greater number of passengers, will reduce the number of aircraft flying. These aircraft will provide a range of economic, social and environmental benefits and we must be able to cater for them. Not to do so would exclude us from a significant part of the airline business.

Growth opportunities for airlines operating out of Ireland, particularly for Aer Lingus, in long-haul flights are tantalising close, and for that reason I welcome the many positive comments of Senators on issues other than those contained in the Bill. In particular I welcome the balanced and succinct comments of Senator Mansergh and I agree wholeheartedly with him.

I assure the House and my colleagues that what exercises my mind is finding the best outcomes for Irish aviation, the travelling public and Ireland, in order to ensure we have the best fixed asset and mobile facilities. I echo the call here today for good cost-efficient airlines. Cost-efficiency and quality are not mutually exclusive, and I bear that in mind when dealing with these issues. These measures represent significant opportunities for this country and I assure colleagues that the Government is determined to deal with them in Ireland's best interests. I thank Senators for their support for the Bill.