Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

I congratulate the Cathaoirleach on his election and wish him well in the role.

Last October, prior to the sale of Aer Lingus, a clear statement was made to the effect that four slots must be retained between Shannon and Heathrow for the economic benefit of the region. That was Government policy and was reflected in the articles of association. Shares were purchased in the airline on that basis. I feel some sympathy for the Minister for Transport because I think he has been sold a pup. The company has decided to ride roughshod over the policy the Government put in place to protect regional interests, to ensure connectivity and to attract business and tourists to the region.

Senator Ross had a point yesterday when he asked why the Government does not simply sell the remaining 25%. However, I do not agree with the Senator on selling the shareholding because we need to make use of it. I am a shareholder in a business, as are many other Members, and if we owned a 25% share, we could use it to force an extraordinary general meeting. It is not beyond the wit of the Government to force Aer Lingus to hold an EGM on this issue and I would encourage it to do just that.