Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

Yes, and we want to see it sold as quickly as possible. The authority also has interests in airports outside of the country. Do they need to be involved in those interests? If they were realised, would there be enough money available to pay the debts? How much would be available to provide a way forward? Dublin Airport Authority is a company with certain assets and these must be examined.

I know from discussions I have had with directors involved in Cork and Shannon airports that when they took on their onerous task, they did so in the belief that the commitments entered into at the time would be adhered to. Notwithstanding the recent problems that have surfaced, we must do everything in our power to ensure they will. We have seen growth take place on the presumption that these airports would be debt free and on that basis decisions have been taken to introduce extra flights. How can we ensure these airports still get a blank canvas and that the commitment is kept? We have seen the growth that has taken place since they became independent. It would not have taken place under the old regime. The Tánaiste said at the weekend that there is no turning back. We must find a way forward.