Brendan Daly (Fianna Fail)

I will not express it in terms I would use outside the House but if things got difficult the State should support any airport that got into difficulty. Although the cost base problem at Shannon must be addressed, I cannot see these airports getting into difficulty. Much work has been done to reduce the cost base and the Minister's predecessor gave an undertaking that people would not be forced from their jobs. It was hoped that if there was overcapacity of personnel in the airport, some arrangement could be made to facilitate workers having a say in how this is addressed. I am satisfied that the difficulties highlighted this evening can be resolved because these are State airports.

Shannon, Dublin and Cork airports are expanding to the point of having capacity problems. This was not the case for a long time in Shannon. Runways and terminals were empty and, as the Cathaoirleach is aware, we were pleased to welcome Aeroflot long before the Iron Curtain collapsed. At the time the airport was in danger of closing. A transformation has taken place and the large numbers that passed through last year are an indication that the current policies are working. I wish to see the Shannon authorities allowed to undertake work at the airport. The board is comprised of very competent people and expert professionals are available. Some have managed airports for years and know what must be done to attract more business and address shortcomings. Major investment has made Shannon the ideal airport, as other Senators have mentioned.

If the day of reckoning comes, management at Shannon Airport can approach the Minister to remind him of his responsibility to a State airport, owned by the people of Ireland. The new formula can transform Shannon Airport, thereby making a major impact on industry, tourism and business in the region.

Despite the concern that transatlantic flights may be lost as a consequence of an open skies policy, sufficient business can be generated to copper-fasten and expand on current business. Yesterday I spoke to my neighbour who could not get an Aer Lingus flight to Shannon because of capacity problems. I appeal to those who take a negative view of the situation to give these airports a chance to become established.

I referred to rates on Committee Stage of the Bill that created the airport authorities. State airports should not pay substantial rates. Instead, the State should pay these bills and remove this burden from companies. Many such issues could be addressed, allowing the authorities to provide a service to airlines, customers and people in the Shannon region.