David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Ryanair is once more attempting a hostile takeover of Aer Lingus. Mr. Michael O'Leary is a very clever and competent business man, but this is nothing other than the calculated dismemberment of our national airline. Ryanair started as an Irish airline but it is now a multinational concern, with all the voracious appetites that, perhaps appropriately, go with this. It is quite extraordinary that a gift of ¤100 million will apparently be made to a moth-eaten, decrepit British airline to prop it up and make it some type of artificial competitor with Aer Lingus. What happens if, after the cannibalisation of Aer Lingus, Flybe flies off and disappears? The ¤100 million investment might well prove to be very worthwhile for Mr. O'Leary, who is clever and calculating, as business men must be.

I take this opportunity to welcome the overwhelming vote in the House of Commons yesterday in favour of gay marriage. This can be put in the context that for the first time President Obama referred to this situation and endorsed gay marriage. Recent polls have shown that approximately 75% of Irish people support it as well. During the discussion this morning it was mentioned that this would be one of the principal items of discussion in the convention on the Constitution. I was part of that and I spoke quite effectively, I believe, and got things changed at the first meeting - I will return again for something else - but I have been dislodged from speaking on this subject and will be replaced by my colleague, Senator Rónán Mullen. I have always considered it important to include people who have a particular expertise in an area. I have a particular interest because, first, I produced the first legislation in this area. It was quite historic in this country and it was discussed on a number of occasions in this House. It put the bomb under the Government that moved it in this direction. I will not speak at length about what I think of the suitability of the two people who showed an interest in this area. Anybody who wishes to know my views need only consult the record and see the very different positions taken by Senator Mullen and me on this issue when it was discussed. People would be well advised to look at what was said in that debate.

However, I have every confidence in the Irish people. Having attended the convention, I believe it will emerge with a view that reflects the views of 75% of the people on this island.