Dan Boyle (Green Party)

I would like a debate on aviation policy because if matters are not resolved regarding the ongoing debt at Cork Airport linked to its new terminal, it has been threatened that the future management of the airport will come under the auspices of the Dublin Airport Authority, which is contrary to a programme for Government commitment to work towards the independent management of both Cork and Shannon Airports as soon as possible. Were the threat to come to pass, it would be regrettable. The Minister for Transport needs to come to the House to discuss whether the debt will be waived completely or partially or whether the entire debt must be met by Cork Airport. Those of us who represent the Cork region would like such a debate.

I regret that Senator Norris has removed his Bill from the Order Paper because it helped to inform and forward the debate. He may not be aware of a meeting in Government Buildings last week with representatives of gay and lesbian groups who were satisfied by the progress which will ensue from the Government's Bill. The heads of the Bill will be available in March and it will be published in September. The House will have the opportunity to pass that legislation which is very much part of the programme for Government.