I wish to make two happy announcements. I welcome the fact that a further American football game, between Boston College and Georgia Tech, will take place in Dublin next September. American college football is not just making a name for itself but is making a second home for itself here. This should be welcomed by all involved in tourism and sport.

Second, Dublin is the chosen destination for the International Air Transport Association's annual general meeting next year. This is one of the most prestigious events on the travel calendar. The AGM will be hosted in the RDS from 1 to 3 June next year. This trade association gathering of the world's airlines will attract more than 1,200 delegates to our capital city and, hopefully, some of them will visit the north east also. It is estimated this meeting is worth €1.6 million to the local economy.

Is the Senator seeking a debate on this issue?

I am just welcoming these initiatives. It augurs well for tourism that we are getting these two most prestigious events in our capital city.

Will it compensate for the sale of Aer Lingus?

Fianna Fáil sold it.

Yes, Fianna Fáil sold it.

No, we got investment in it.

I call the Leader, without interruption please.