The loss of Pádraig Ó Céidigh as chairperson of the board of the Shannon Group is very disappointing news. His appointment last year was warmly welcomed by the mid-west and western region. Mr. Ó Céidigh rolled up his sleeves and in a post-pandemic world we have seen transatlantic services restored and the restoration of the vital hub at Heathrow. Ryanair services have multiplied. Indeed, there are 108 services this summer from Shannon. He has done a wonderful job. It is going to be hard to replace somebody of the calibre of Pádraig Ó Céidigh as chairperson. Prior to a new recruitment campaign starting, I ask that an analysis be undertaken to establish the reasons he has stood down as chairperson. That analysis must be looked at, considered and acted on before a new recruitment process is started.

The Deputy's support of, and work for, Shannon Airport and the Shannon Group are well known to me and to all in the Shannon Group and in the airport. Like the Deputy, I acknowledge the massive progress the airport has made after a very difficult 2020 and 2021, with services and transatlantic access very positive news. Of course, for any group to lose a person of the calibre of Mr. Ó Céidigh is a regret. It is a pity he is not going to be in a position to continue with that work on behalf of the Shannon Group. I understand that the reason he made the decision was the amount of time he needed to put into the role and it not being consistent with all the other commitments he has currently. Yes, of course we will look at what is the proper specification of this role. The Department of Transport along with the Public Appointments Service will work hard to try to get a person of similar calibre to Mr. Ó Céidigh.