One of the problems when we look at motorways is that cost is the only factor that seems to matter to those in charge. One cannot measure archaeological finds, heritage, fauna, flora and environmental damage in terms of costs. One cannot compare the cost of a motorway with heritage. They are totally different things. One …
Monthly Archive
for: ‘November, 2004’
The Seanad Risks Irrelevence Unless the Issues of the Day are Debated
I am somewhat depressed that the House today is discussing the sole item of statements on pensions. I do not believe that is as urgent as the issue of Aer Lingus. The Seanad is in danger of becoming increasingly irrelevant if it refuses to discuss issues of this sort. Senator O’Toole and I would certainly …
The Aer Lingus Issue Must be Debated; Not Fudged
Following the resignations of three senior Aer Lingus executives, I argued in the Seanad today that there is little point in discussing the issue without the Taoiseach coming to the House. Senator O’Toole referred to the lack of a need for politicking. I sympathise with that but Aer Lingus is all about politics. That is …
Greater Competition and Less Consumer Crucification Needed in Public Transport
The Minister for Transport has an important role as sole shareholder of CIE. That is a responsible role but I suggest it has been a tremendous obstacle to transport in this country. That CIE has been a monopoly for so long, along with the other great monopolies of the State – CIE, An Post and …
Improving Public Transport; Protecting Our Heritage
It is fashionable and easy to bellyache about public transport and people will do so whenever they are in Opposition. Ministers for Transport are easy targets and they have a very difficult job. I agree with much of what has been said about the improvements which have taken place in transport in the Dublin area …
A debate on Transport Would Occupy the Minister for a Long Time
We should not restrict any debate on transport to the Luas. Some serious questions have to be answered but there has been a continuous failure to do so. They concern the other two major problems in this area, namely, Aer Rianta and Aer Lingus. Whereas the change of Minister may or may not make a …