Frank Feighan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We must welcome the direct flights between Hong Kong and Dublin and between Beijing and Dublin, which will begin next month.I believe this will be a game changer in our trade in tourism and exports to and from China. I was on a trip to China by Members of the Oireachtas and the Ceann Comhairle last week and it was eye opening to see its modern economy. There are huge opportunities for farmers, in particular, and agricultural exports. I say that because I saw a T-bone steak for sale in a shop in Hong Kong for €23. Australian milk costs up to €6 per litre. This offers huge opportunities in view of the direct links between Hong Kong and Dublin and Beijing and Dublin. It is just a 12 hour flight. I thank all the diplomats who are selling Ireland not just in China, but across the world. They are doing our country a huge service, and we should be very proud of their expertise and vocation for promoting and selling Ireland around the world. This is good news and it should be welcomed.