John Gerard Hanafin (Fianna Fail)

I support Senator Mooney and Senator Mansergh. The world is a more dangerous place today. The President of Iran speaking of Israel in those terms and given our knowledge that Iran is pursuing a nuclear programme, there is a strong probability that Israel will defend its interests prior to any other eventuality. The situation is very serious.

Will the Leader arrange a debate on transport? A number of people objected vociferously to taxpayers' money being used to provide a new terminal at Dublin Airport. However, it appears that at least one company is using taxpayers' money for its bottom line. If a company raises taxes, it does so on behalf of the State and it is incumbent on that company to pass that money to the State. There is no basis for telling people that because they paid money to the company, it will not return it. That is the pirate's charter — take everything and give nothing back. It is unacceptable. If landing fees and taxes have been paid but the people do not fly, the money either belongs to the people concerned or the taxpayer, not the company.

Having read the Ferns report, it is apparent that we must legislate to protect children. People have not acted properly.