Seanad debates

Tuesday, 10 November 2009

10:30 am

Photo of David NorrisDavid Norris (Independent)

It is an absolute outrage. It appears there is one rule for the rich and another for the vulnerable. I have been issuing warnings about this matter for quite some time.

While I am awaiting the Cathaoirleach's ruling on this matter - I ask that he raise the matter directly with the Minister - would he be kind enough to permit me to ask the Leader if he will make time available for a debate on the airline industry and the piratical behaviour of both major Irish airlines? Ryanair is proposing to impose a charge of €100 on anyone who does not print off his or her boarding card. This is another attack on the vulnerable, namely, the elderly and those who do not have access to computers. How will such individuals travel to meet their relatives over the Christmas period or at any other time? There is a need for a full debate on the behaviour of the airlines and the way in which they are prejudicing the lives, welfare and pension rights of ordinary citizens. If the Cathaoirleach discovers that his hands are bound in respect of this matter - I still ask that he inquire into it further - then the House should have a full debate on it. The ordinary people deserve such a debate.

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