Maria Byrne (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise two issues. The Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, confirmed after the Cabinet that a €36 million investment will be available to Shannon and Cork airports. A review brought to Cabinet showed that passenger numbers at Shannon Airport were down 1.5 million to just over 300,000. I understand that this money will be for security and sustainability. This is important for the development of the regions. Shannon Airport means so much to the mid-west region, to businesses and to people who want ease of access using flights from Shannon Airport. I welcome that this money is available to regional airports today.

I read with interest a report where front-line workers are being abused by members of the public when they are asked to put on a mask. I understand that people are frustrated, but our front-line workers and those working in the hospitality industry and the retail grocery industry are there to provide a service. People need to have a bit of respect towards workers because they are there to do their job and they must follow the guidelines in front of them. It is incumbent on us to get the message out there that people need to have respect for their fellow citizens. After all, they are there to do their job. This is very important.