The Taoiseach is very well aware of the importance of Kerry Airport, based in Farranfore, County Kerry, the capital of tourism in the western world. I thank the Government and previous Governments for their support of that airport. I know that the Taoiseach personally recognises the importance of it. On behalf of everyone working at that excellent facility, from the ladies who make the tea to those operating the controls in the tower and so on, I ask that the Taoiseach would ensure it is always supported. There are great plans for the future growth of the airport. It is of massive importance for us from an economic point of view and a connectivity point of view be that with Germany or other parts of Europe. Connected to Dublin, it is our hub in terms of travel around the world. One can travel to Australia from Farranfore airport if you get two aeroplanes. It is our step to the rest of the world and the step from the rest of world to us. The importance of it can never be overestimated. I am asking for continued support from the Taoiseach and the Government for the airport.

The Taoiseach cannot respond if Members do not leave time for him to do so.

I agree wholeheartedly with the Deputy that the importance of Kerry, in particular Killarney and Farranfore airport, can never be overestimated. The airport is very valuable and important to the economic development of the region and to the social life of the region. With the development of the Munster Technological University, there are great opportunities and synergies to be had in terms of increased investment in Tralee Munster Technological University, along with the airport. We are fully behind that.