Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We must continue to develop our relationship for a variety of reasons. I hope that before we reach 29 March there will be a realisation by the UK that a deal is critical. I thank the House for supporting the Government in this.

Senator Horkan must have been on the hotline to the Irish Aviation Authority, IAA, yesterday. I commend him on his contribution and agree that we cannot compromise on passenger safety. While we do not want to be alarmist or sensationalist, there are genuine concerns with the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Its suspension by a number of countries around the world was not arbitrary. I hope that all airlines and aviation authorities will undertake a detailed analysis and thorough investigation of the aircraft. I know that its suspension has discommoded many passengers, which is regrettable but we cannot compromise on safety.

Senators Craughwell, Conway-Walsh, Wilson, Ó Domhnaill and Mac Lochlainn spoke about the Sea-Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2017. While I do not want to strike a discordant note, the legislation is very important. I understand the sensitivities expressed by Members this morning but the Bill is not being rushed or pushed through for the sake of optics. Do we want to see a hard border for fishermen in our country? Is that what we are saying? We must remember that 29 March is coming and the clock has not stopped ticking. The Minister met some Members of the House to discuss this yesterday. This legislation is urgent.