Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I second the amendment to the motion. I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy Haughey, on his second visit to the House. When the Government announced he was to become a Minister of State, his appointment was universally welcomed on all sides of the House, such is his standing in both Houses.

I am glad Senator Mansergh referred to the airport at Knock. One of the most positive announcements in recent weeks regarding Knock and the connection between the west and the north west was the announcement of new transatlantic flights from New York to Knock, which were brought about directly as a result of the political intervention by Deputy Perry of Fine Gael. While his name has not been mentioned, I wish to put it on the record. Mayor Bloomberg came to Sligo last summer for the commemoration of an historical event. Out of that visit came the fruitful discussions that led to the announcement made ten days ago. I welcome that my Fine Gael colleague from Sligo was the catalyst upon which the transatlantic flights between the north west and New York were brought about.