Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I am amused at Senator Darragh O'Brien seeking instant answers on the Ryanair bid for Aer Lingus. It has not yet been discussed by Cabinet and it involves serious matters of national policy and competition that must be examined in great detail. The European Commission ruled out a previous attempt by Ryanair to acquire Aer Lingus. We had better wait a little.

Today's amendment to the Order of Business is opportunist. Let us exercise more caution and less haste. It is an important subject and the groups should discuss it in detail first. Nothing will happen overnight. I appeal for calm and I do not see the need for that amendment to the Order of Business. It will be misinterpreted. I am sure the Leader will endorse that line.