Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. The critical point is, first, that there are no plans and, second, that we have a new national aviation policy being rewritten. The pivotal point from which we should start is that our airline and aviation sector has changed considerably, as I said. We have seen profound change. Tourism is our largest indigenous employer, responsible for over 265,000 jobs. As I said, 23 cent in every euro of spend directly related to tourism returns to the Exchequer. The Government has given strong support to the aviation sector to sustain tourism and aviation during the pandemic.However, we are now in a critical period for Irish aviation and tourism. As an island nation, there is a need for a defined aviation and tourism recovery strategy for 2023 and beyond. As we emerge from Covid, we must face up to the challenges of Ukraine, labour shortages, fuel prices and inflation, along with other challenges. That is why it is critical that we have a dedicated aviation strategy for the future. I look forward to engaging with the Minister of State, Deputy Naughton, and the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan. I appreciate the Minister of State, Deputy Joe O'Brien, being here today.