Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I support the proposal for a debate on the crisis in Burma. It is vital that the House expresses its views and solidarity with the people of Burma who have been oppressed by the regime for so long.

Regarding the near tragedy of the gunning down of Garda Sherlock in Dublin, it is important that people provide information in order that the persons involved can be arrested and brought to trial. There is no doubt Garda Sherlock was unarmed because under no circumstances would a garda have weapons with him or her during traffic corps duty. The Minister should be invited to the House to outline the situation regarding the number of armed gangs and this morning's shootings at a house in Dublin. Our generally unarmed police force has proven successful to date, but this issue must be reviewed in light of what happened to Garda Sherlock and its effect on his family. I express my best wishes to him and his family for a speedy recovery. I commend the force on its wonderful and dedicated service to the people. It is a courageous organisation.

On the amendment to the Order of Business, there should be a debate on the Shannon situation, but not today. The debate in the other House should be allowed to take place. A number of Senators have grave reservations about the proposal by Aer Lingus to withdraw the Heathrow slots next January. There is still time and instead of asking another airline to supply direct routes from Shannon to Heathrow, we should exert maximum pressure on a company in which the State has a 25.4% share. We have a duty and responsibility to the people of the region because this is a crisis for the area.

As a representative of the west and its people, I ask for a debate on the matter and for the Minister to explain to this House the current position on and future plans for Shannon Airport. He should also explain the question of connectivity with Heathrow rather than other European airports, as that connectivity is key for the region.