asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether the discussions with the representatives of the United States Government on the subject of the landings and passenger-carrying rights in Ireland of United States planes have been concluded; and if he will make a statement on the decisions reached.

95.

asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether, further to a reply of 6th December last on the subject of the Irish-American air discussions then in progress, he is now in a position to make a statement on the decisions arrived at in these discussions.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions No. 94 and No. 95 together.

A reply has been issued to the United States Government following the discussion on the bilateral Air Transport Agreement and I will make a statement on the matter as soon as possible.

At the next dinner.

May we take it that at least a stage has now been reached at which the present operations of Irish Airlines will be maintained and that, so far, at all events, there is no question of American planes landing on direct flights from America at Dublin Airport?

There is no change at the moment.

Could the Minister say when it is proposed to resume the discussion?

We are awaiting a final communication from the American Government.

Have they accepted the situation that there will be no change?

They have made no final statement in respect to the matter.

Are the proposals now under discussion similar to or identical with those made by the U.S. Government earlier, and rejected?

It has been made clear to the United States Government, who have asked for permission to fly planes to Dublin Airport——

Always refused?

Always refused.

What change has taken place involving a situation which was rejected several times already?

There is always the question of our general agreement with the United States Government in respect of air transport.

It was possible to reject the proposals several times, even though there was an agreement. What change has taken place in that situation?

There is no change but arrangements must be made for consultation on these matters. Consultations have to take place whenever they ask for them.

That is all very well. We do not mind consultations, but this is consultation over a long period on a matter which has been rejected several times.

But they have a right to look for consultation.

Are they looking for consultations which will result only in another refusal?

They are looking for new consultations. I made it clear to the Deputy that an announcement will be made in respect to the matter when we have an agreed statement.

Would the Minister say if the matter will be considered with sympathy?

The Deputy knows well what the relevant considerations are. The importance of Shannon Airport is being taken into account.

A matter that is most relevant, and which is being awaited, is the further rejection——

We are not selling our planes, anyway, as the Deputy's Party did.

I wish I could sell a few more.