Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

I ask the Deputy Leader to organise a debate on the aviation sector without delay. I am particularly concerned about the difficulties at Shannon Airport where there is a stand-off between management and staff in regard to the future development of a business plan. It is having a negative impact on tourism and commercial and business interests in the region. In view of the debate here today about job losses in the region it is vitally important that we have an airport that can service the needs of the community, particularly if new enterprises are to replace existing enterprises.

An urgent debate is also required on the Open Skies issue, negotiations on which have continued for some time. A deal has been concluded between the EU and US in recent days. There is an effort to allow that to pass without the provision of the necessary marketing fund to allow the region compete in the Open Skies environment. I am disappointed with the Minister in respect of what has happened. I am also disappointed also that the marketing fund promised for the mid west region has not been put in place in tandem with the announcement in regard to Open Skies. It is vitally important that Shannon Airport can compete on a level playing field. I ask the Acting Leader to invite the Minister for Transport to come before the House at the earliest opportunity to outline what he intends to do to ensure a viable aviation sector which guarantees employment and tourism in the mid west. Perhaps he could arrange for this after the St. Patrick's Day break.