John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

Despite the various talks that are taking place, there is a tense stand off between customers, staff and the airlines simply because they do not know what is happening. I was shocked at the comments of the chairman of the Dublin Airport Authority after the recent AGM. He gave the definitive reply, prior to the completion of talks or consultants' reports, that Cork would carry the debt. Is it right that a party with a clear vested interest controls the decision-making process, appoints the consultants and interprets their reports? It is disturbing that a chairman whose remit is to carry out Government policy would make such a comment. This appears to have been a unilateral decision.

We now live in an era of 30-year mortgages and interest-only mortgages. If we need fantasy accounting to get over a technicality in company law, let us do it. The Minister knows the issue can be addressed. The new board in Cork has no power and is extremely frustrated. Frankly, it is working with its hands tied behind its back. All this suits Dublin and its own agenda.