Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Senator Quinn mentioned heritage houses and free flights. With regard to the latter, we examined the issue of free flights and had some discussions with the airlines which did not prove successful. Free flights can be arranged to an island but it is trickier for Ireland because there are huge displacement risks. One could end up giving free flights to 80% of the people who would have travelled here anyway. State aid rules also mean that we would have to approach the European Commission for approval beforehand. The initiative was not a runner but it was considered.

I think that I have covered everything and I thank Senators for their contributions. It is always a pleasure to be here. I enjoyed the exchange of views and the rigorous debate.