APPENDIX 5
PROCEEDINGS OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
Wednesday, 12th January, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 2.32 p.m.
2.Attendance
Deputies: John Ellis in the chair, Martin Brady, Jim Glennon, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn, Róisin Shorthall and Ollie Wilkinson. Substitutes: James Bannon for Michael Lowry and Ned O’Keeffe for Peter Power.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley and David Norris.
Also in attendance: Senator Kieran Phelan
Apologies were received from Deputies Paul Connaughton and Peter Power.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 2.50 p.m. until 19 January 2005.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
26th January 2005
Wednesday, 19th January, 2005
1.The joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 9.38 a..m..
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis in the chair, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Noel O’Flynn, Ollie Wilkinson and Róisin Shorthall. Substitutes: Philip Hogan for Paul Connaughton and Jimmy Devins for Peter Power
Senators: Paddy Burke. Substitute: Terry Leydan for Timmy Dooley
Other members attending: Deputy Paul Coughlan
Apologies were received from Deputy Olivia Mitchell.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 9.56 a.m. until 26 January 2005.
____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
26th January 2005
Wednesday, 26th January, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2.36 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Martin Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn, Peter Power, Seán Ryan*, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson
Senators: Timmy Dooley and Tom Morrissey
*Attended in accordance with SO 90 (3) [Dáil].
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Seamus Healy and Senators Paddy Burke and David Norris.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
5.The Committee met in public session at 2.49 p.m.
Discussion with Aer Lingus on future Strategic Proposals for Aer Lingus with Company Chairman
The Chairman gave a presentation. A question and answer session followed.
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 5.14 p.m. until 1 February 2005.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
22 March, 2006.
Tuesday, 1st February, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 1.37 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Martin Brady, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Ollie Wilkinson and Róisín Shortall.
Senators: Paddy Burke, David Norris, Tom Morrissey and Timmy Dooley.
Apologises from Deputies Connaughton and Glennon
Also in attendance: Senators Paul Coughlan, Kieran Phelan and Terry Leyden.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 1.51 p.m.
5.Discussion on the proposed M3 motorway
Presentations were made by the following:
Tom Hamill, Bellinter, Navan Co Meath
Julitta Clancy, Meath Archaeological & Historical Society, Parsonstown, Batterstown, Co Meath
Brendan Magee, Meath Roads Action Group, Bellinter, Navan, Co Meath
Mr Hugh Cregan (in substitute for Mr Michael Egan), NRA Head of Corporate Affairs, St Martin’s House, Waterloo Road, Dublin 4
Reg McCabe, IBEC Director, Transport & PPPs, Confederation House, 84/86 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2
Adrienne Bowen (in substitute for Michael Cassidy, President) Navan Chambers of Commerce, Chamber Buildings, Church Hill, Navan, Co Meath
Mr Oliver Perkins, County Engineer, Meath County Council
Damien McDermot, Senior Executive Engineer, Donegal County Council,National Roads Design Office, Donegal Public Services Centre, Drumlonagher, Donegal Town, Co Donegal
Jack Keyes, County Manager, Cavan County Council, Courthouse, Cavan
Brian Fitzgerald M.C.C., Warrenstown, Kilcock, Co Meath
Johnny Brady TD, John St., Kells, Co Meath
Brendan Smith TD, Minister of State, Dept of Agriculture & Food, Kildare St, Dublin 2
Philip Cantwell, Member of Meath County Council, Villa Maria, Manorland, Trim
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 4.05 p.m. until 9th February 2005
____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
9th February 2005
Wednesday, 9th February, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Martin Brady, Jim Glennon, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn, Ollie Wilkinson and Róisín Shortall. Deputy James Breen in substitute for Deputy Lowry and Deputy Ned O’Keeffe in substitute for Deputy Power.
Senators: Paddy Burke, David Norris, and Timmy Dooley.
Apologises from Deputy Lowry and Deputy Power
Also in attendance Senator Kieran Phelan.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session.
The Committee met in public session at 2.43 p.m.
5.Discussion on the proposed M3 motorway.
A presentation was given by Dr Muireann Ni Bhrolchain and Mr Vincent Salafia of the Save Tara/Skryne Valley group.
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 2.50 p.m. until 15th February 2005.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
15th February 2005
Tuesday, 15th February, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 1.36 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Martin Brady, Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Olivia Mitchell, Ollie Wilkinson and Róisín Shortall.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Apologies were received from Deputy Power.
Also in attendance Senator Kieran Phelan and Senator Maurice Cummins.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session.
The Committee met in public session at 1.48 p.m.
6.Presentation by the Chamber of Commerce Ireland on EU/US Open Skies.
A presentation was made by Mr John Dunne, Chief Executive, Chamber of Commerce of Ireland on EU/US Open Skies. A question & answer session followed.
Also in attendance were: Mr. Frederik Sorensen and Mr Alan Dukes (co-authors of “EU/US Air Transport Agreement-Potential Impact on Ireland), Seán Murphy, Head of Public Affairs CCI and Tadhg Kearney, Chairperson, CCI’s Air Transport Users Council.
7. Discussion on the proposed M3 motorway.
A presentation was given by Mr Michael Slavin of the Meath Citizens for the M3.
Adjournment
8.The Joint Committee adjourned at 3.39 p.m. until 23 February 2005.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
23rd February 2005
Wednesday, 23rd February, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.36 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 3.15 p.m. until 9 March, 2005
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
22 March, 2006.
Wednesday, 9th March, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House, 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
Deputies: J. Ellis (in the chair), P. Connaughton, J Glennon, S Healy, O Mitchell, N O’Flynn, P Power, R Shortall and O Wilkinson.
Senators: P. Burke and T Dooley.
Also in attendance were Deputies J Carty, J Cowley, P Kelly, M Ring and M Harkin. Senator F Feighan also attended.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.52 p.m.
6.Presentation by Knock International airport Management Team
Mr Liam Scollan and Mr Robert Grealis made a presentation to Joint Committee on current operational issues and future strategic directions for Knock International Airport. A Question and Answer session with members followed the presentation.
It was agreed that the text of the presentation be sent to the Department of Transport for its comments.
Adjournment
7.The Committee adjourned at 4.00 until 23 March, 2005
_________________
John Ellis, T.D.,
Chairman.
23rd March 2005
Wednesday, 23rd March, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Michael Lowry, Peter Power, Róisín Shorthall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paddy Burke and Timmy Dooley.
Apologies were received from Deputies Paul Connaughton, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn and Senator Davis Norris.
Also in attendance Deputy Eamon Ryan and Senator Shane Ross.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.38
7.Discussion with the NRA on the proposed outer ring road and road tolls.
Mr. Fred Barry of the NRA made a presentation. A question and answer session followed
Also in attendance were: Mr. Eugene O’Connor, Head of Project Manager and Engineering, NRA and Mr. Gerard Murphy, PPP Manager, NRA.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 4.11 p.m., until 13th April 2005
___________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
13th April 2005
Wednesday, 13th April, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1. Leinster House 2000 at 2.36 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn, Peter Power and Róisín Shorthall.
Senators: Timmy Dooley and Tom Morrissey.
Apologies were received from Deputy Ollie Wilkinson.
Also in attendance Deputies Jan O’Sullivan, Trevor Sargent, Sean Ryan, John Dennehy, Billy Kelleher, Kathleen Lynch and Ned O’Keeffe.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.52
6.Discussion with the relevant officials on current operation issues and future strategic directions for Dublin, Cork and Shannon Airports.
Mr Gary McGann — Chairman —Dublin Airport Authority, Mr. Patrick Shanahan —Chairman — Shannon Airport Authority and Mr. Joe Gantly - Chairman —Cork Airport Authority made opening presentations. A question and answer session followed.
It was agreed that the Airport Authorities would be called back before the Joint Committee (possibly on short notice), on publication of the respective business plans.
Also in attendance were: Mr. Declan Collier (Chief Executive),
Mr. Oliver Cussen (Director Corporate Affairs, Company Secretary) —Dublin Airport Authority, Mr. Martin Moroney (Director) -Shannon Airport Authority and Mr. Joe O’ Connor (Director) -Cork Airport Authority.
Adjournment
7.The Committee adjourned at 6.13 p.m.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
20th April 2005
Wednesday, 20th April, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shorthall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley and David Norris.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
5.The Committee met in public session at 2.37
Scrutiny of EU legislative proposals, presentation from the Department of Transport on:
COM (2004) 774 and COM (2005) 47
Mr. Des Coppins, Principal Officer, Dept of Transport made opening presentation on COM (2004) 774. A question and answer session followed.
Mr. Ray McKay, Principal Officer, Dept of Transport made an opening presentation on COM (2005) 47. A question and answer session followed.
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 3.28 p.m. until the 5th May 2005
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
21 September 2005.
Wednesday, 4th May, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Martin Brady, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Róisín Shorthall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley.
Apologies received Deputy Paul Connaughton.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
6.The Committee met in public session at 2.40 p.m.
Scrutiny of EU legislative proposals, presentation from the Department of Transport on:
COM (2004) 139
Proposed Directive on development of the Community’s Railways.
COM (2004) 142
Proposed Directive on the certification of train crews operating locomotives and trains on the Community’s rail network.
COM (2004) 143
Proposed Regulations on International Rail Passengers’ Rights and Obligations.
COM (2004) 144
Proposed Regulation on compensation in cases of non-compliance with contractual requirements for rail freight services
Mr. Dermot McCarthy and Ms Orla Corrigan, Dept of Transport made opening presentation on COM(2004)139, COM(2004)142, COM(2004)143 and COM(2004)144. A question and answer session followed.
Adjournment
7.The Committee adjourned at 3.27 p.m. until Wednesday 18th May 2005.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
24th May 2005
Tuesday, 24th May, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.45 p.m.
2.Attendance:
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shorthall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley (Eamon Scanlon in part substitution) and David Norris.
Apologies received Deputy Michael Lowry.
Also in attendance Deputies Eamon Ryan and Seamus Kirk.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
6.The Committee met in public session at 2.58 pm
The Chairman took a minute to express, on behalf of the Committee, their sincere sympathy on the tragic accident, which resulted in the death of the five teenage students in Co. Meath.
7.Discussion with the NRA on road infrastructure to date
Mr. Fred Barry, Chief Executive, NRA made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance was Mr Eugene O’Connor, Head of Project Management & Engineering and Mr Gerard Murphy, PPP Manager.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 4.35 p.m. until 1 June 2005
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
1st June 2005
Wednesday, 1st June, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.31p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Michael Lowry, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shorthall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: David Norris and Tom Morrissey
Apologies received Senator Paddy Burke.
Also in attendance were Deputies Barry Andrews, Liz McManus, Fiona O’Malley, Sean Ryan, Trevor Sargent and David Stanton.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
7.The Committee met in public session at 2.39 pm
Discussion with the Iarnród Éireann on current issues pertaining to Iarnród Eireann
Mr. Richard Fearn, Acting Chief Executive made opening presentation. A question and answer session followed. Also in attendance from Iarnroid Eireann were, Mr. Joe Leahy —Director New Works, Mr. Ray Kelly —Manager Corporate Affairs, Mr. Tom Finn —Strategic Planning Manager and from Dublin Bus Mr. Declan Murray —Division Manager Donnybrook.
It was agreed that An Taisce be invited to attend the next Joint Committee meeting on 29th June to discuss their objections to the proposed DART upgrade work at Dublin Southside stations.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 5.05 p.m.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
29 June 2005
Wednesday, 29th June, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 3, Leinster House 2000 at 2.40 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Éamonn Gilmore*, Olivia Mitchell and Peter Power.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Noel O’Flynn.
* Deputy Gilmore substituted for Deputy Shortall.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
5.The Committee met in public session at 2.40 p.m.
Discussion with An Taisce on objections to the proposed DART upgrade work
The Committee heard a brief presentation from Mr. Martin Sheils, Office Manager of An Taisce regarding objections to the proposed DART upgrade work on Dublin Southside stations.
Mr. Sheils was joined by Mr. Ian Lumley, Heritage Officer.
Discussion ensued.
It was agreed that a letter presented to the Chairman by Mr. Sheils regarding the use of unauthorised quarries in road building projects be forwarded to the Joint Committee on the Environment and Local Government.
Adjournment
6.The Committee adjourned at 3.16 p.m.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
13th July 2005.
Wednesday, 13th July, 2005
1.The joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.35 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, John Hanafin, Terry Leydon and Tom Morrissey.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Noel O’Flynn and Senator David Norris.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The meeting suspended from 2.45 p.m. to 2.53 p.m.
6. Travel
The Committee agreed to undertake a visit to Hong Kong to examine its airport, port and high speed rail infrastructure, considered to be among the best in the world.
It was agreed that the purpose of the trip was central to the role of the Committee to review major areas of policy falling within the remit of the Minister for Transport. In addition a visit to Hong Kong would afford the Committee an opportunity to outline its priorities in relation to future development of airports, ports and rail infrastructure and it was important for the Committee to improve its understanding of the means employed in other countries for the successful operation of transport systems.
It was agreed to travel in mid-October and in view of the long distance involved, that business class travel would be used on this occasion. The Clerk was asked to seek sanction for the visit and to commence to make the necessary arrangements.
7.Discussion with the NRA on policy issues relating to service areas on motorways
The Committee heard a presentation from Mr. Fred Barry, Chief Executive of the NRA on policy issues relating to service areas on motorways. Mr. Barry was joined by Mr. Michael Egan, Head of Corporate Affairs.
Discussion ensued. It was agreed that Mr. Barry would forward a copy of the submission on this issue to the Committee after it had been presented to the Board of the NRA.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 3.47 p.m. sine die.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
26th July 2005.
Tuesday, 26th July, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 2, Leinster House 2000 at 11.02 a.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Martin Brady, Pat Breen*, Pat Carey**, Paul Connaughton, John Dennehy*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Joe Higgins**, Paul McGrath**, Ned O’Keeffe*, Peter Power, Seán Ryan**, Trevor Sargent** and Róisín Shortall.
Senators: Michael Brennan***, Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, John Hanafin***, David Norris and Shane Ross****.
*Deputies Breen, Dennehy and O’Keeffe attended in substitution for Deputies Mitchell, O’Flynn and Wilkinson respectively.
** Attended in accordance with SO 90(3) [Dáil].
***Senator Brennan substituted for Senator Morrissey and Senator Hanafin substituted for Senator Dooley for part of the meeting.
****Attended in accordance with SO 74(2) [Seanad].
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Seamus Healy, Michael Lowry, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn and Ollie Wilkinson and Senator Tom Morrissey.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 11.09 a.m.
5.Discussion on recent media reports concerning the Aer Lingus voluntary redundancy scheme
The Committee heard brief presentations from Mr. Michael Halpenny, National Industry Secretary, SIPTU, and from Mr. John Sharman, Executive Chairman, Aer Lingus, on recent media reports concerning the Aer Lingus voluntary redundancy scheme. Mr. Halpenny was accompanied by Ms. Patricia King, Regional Secretary, SIPTU, and Mr. Christy McQuillan, SIPTU Aer Lingus Branch Secretary. Mr. Sharman was accompanied by Mr. Greg O’Sullivan, Company Secretary and Financial Director, Aer Lingus.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew having undertaken to supply the Committee with additional information: SIPTU agreed to forward documentation with regard to complaints received, and to copy its query to Aer Lingus in relation to information given by Aer Lingus at the meeting regarding uniforms and part-time work; Aer Lingus agreed to provide a copy of the HR element of its business plan or its HR policy, as appropriate, and a note from its Executive Chairman on the 12 points listed under “environmental push factors” in the document at the source of the media reports.
6.Item discussed in private session
Adjournment
7.The Committee adjourned at 1.31 p.m. sine die.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
7 September 2005.
Wednesday, 7th September, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.37 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paul Coghlan, Timmy Dooley, John Hanafin* and Tom Morrissey.
*Senator Hanafin substituted for Senator Dooley for part of the meeting.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Peter Power and Senator Paddy Burke.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session.
Adjournment
4.The Committee adjourned at 3.02 p.m. until 21 September 2005.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
21 September 2005.
Wednesday, 21 September, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Martin Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Peter Power and Róisín Shortall.
Senators: Paul Coghlan*, Timmy Dooley and John Hanafin**.
*Senator Paul Coghlan substituted for Senator Paddy Burke.
**Senator John Hanafin substituted for Senator Dooley for part of the meeting.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Olivia Mitchell and Ollie Wilkinson and Senators Paddy Burke and David Norris.
Deputies Sean Crowe, Finian McGrath and Sean Ryan attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.40 p.m.
7.Aer Lingus Pension Scheme: Presentation by Retired Aviation Staff Association
Ms. Mairéad Hayes, Mr. Con Clarke, Mr. Antoin Daltún and Mr. Paddy Kilduff from the Retired Aviation Staff Association made a presentation to the Committee on the Aer Lingus Pension Scheme.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew having undertaken to forward a copy of a letter from the Minister for Transport concerning this matter for the information of the Committee.
Aer Lingus Redundancy Payments Scheme: Joint Presentation by Aer Lingus Craft Group of Trade Unions and IMPACT
Mr. Brendan Gormley, Chairman, Aer Lingus Craft Group of Trade Unions and Ms. Christina Carney and Mr. Michael Landers, Assistant General Secretaries, IMPACT, made a joint presentation to the Committee on recent media reports regarding the Aer Lingus Redundancy Payments Scheme.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew having undertaken to forward the following documentation for the information of the Committee:
Mr. Gormley undertook to forward documentation regarding the number of complaints made to Aer Lingus by members of the Craft Group of Trade Unions regarding their treatment by Aer Lingus;
Ms. Christina Carney undertook to forward a copy of the Labour Court recommendations relating to each of the items listed under the heading ‘environmental push factors’ in an Aer Lingus Human Resources memo;
Mr. Landers undertook to forward documentation regarding decisions of the Labour Court in favour of Aer Lingus staff and the company’s response to those decisions.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 4.55 p.m. until 5 October 2005.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
5 October 2005.
Wednesday, 5 October, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.36 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, Denis O’Donovan*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
*Deputy Denis O’Donovan substituted for Deputy Noel O’Flynn.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
7.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 3.22 p.m
8.Regulation and Licensing of Tour Operators and Travel Agents.
Mr. Niall McDonnell, Acting President of the Irish Tour Operators Federation, Mr. Michael Doorley, President of the Irish Travel Agents Association and Ms. Carmel Foley, Director of Consumer Affairs made a joint presentation to the Committee on issues surrounding the regulation and licensing of Tour Operators and Travel Agents.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew. Mr. Niall McDonnell undertook to forward to the Committee information on the incentive scheme operated by Dublin Airport Authority for scheduled airlines and on the number of scheduled and non-scheduled flights from Dublin airport and the percentage of delays on both.
Adjournment
9.The Committee adjourned at 4.41 p.m. until 19 October 2005.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
20 October 2005.
Wednesday, 20 October, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 2, Leinster House 2000 at 9.32 a.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Deputies Denis Naughton and Eamon Ryan attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session.
4.Item discussed in private session.
5.Item discussed in private session.
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 9.49 a.m.
6.Road Safety.
Assistant Commissioner Eddie Rock and Inspector Con O’Donohue, from the Garda Siochana Traffic Department, Mr. Eddie Shaw, Chairman of the National Safety Council and Mr. Harry Cullen, Senior Project Manager and Mr. Eugene O’Connor, Head of Project Management and Engineering, from the National Roads Authority made a joint presentation to the Committee on road safety.
Discussion ensued. The Chairman thanked the delegation for their contributions.
The witnesses withdrew.
Adjournment
7.The Committee adjourned at 11.25 a.m. sine die
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
27 October 2005.
Wednesday, 27 October, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 3, Leinster House 2000 at 9.35 a.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Deputy Eamon Ryan attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
7.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 9.48 a.m.
8.Discussion on the Report of the Joint Committee ‘Proposal for a Dublin Metro System’.
Mr Frank Allen (Chief Executive Officer) and Mr Rory O’Connor (Project Director of Metro) from the Railway Procurement Agency and Mr. Pat Mangan (Assistant Secretary) and Mr. Seamus Ryan (Assistant Principal) from the Department of Transport attended before the Committee for a discussion on the Report of the Joint Committee Proposal for a Dublin Metro System.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session. The Chairman thanked the delegation for their contributions.
The witnesses withdrew.
Adjournment
9.The Committee adjourned at 11.35 a.m. sine die
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
2 November 2005.
Wednesday, 2 November, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.35 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Martin Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Olivia Mitchell.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 3.29 p.m.
7.Road safety
Mr. Martin Cullen T.D., Minister for Transport, attended before the Committee for further discussion on Road Safety. Minister Cullen was accompanied by Mr. John Lumsden, Assistant Secretary, Mr. John Weafer, Principal Officer and Ms. Hilary Dalton, Assistant Secretary from the Department of Transport.
During the course of the presentation the Minister invited the Chairman of the Committee and Party Spokespersons to meet with the Minister at a mutually convenient date for a discussion, in private, on finding an approach to extending the scope of roadside breath testing.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session. The Chairman thanked the Minister and his officials for their contributions. The witnesses withdrew.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 4.39 p.m. sine die
________________________
Peter Power T.D.
Vice-Chairman.
9 November 2005.
Wednesday, 9 November, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.39 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power (in the Chair) and Róisín Shortall.
Senator: Timmy Dooley
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy John Ellis.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.40 p.m.
7.Presentation by the Commissioner for Aviation Regulation, Mr. William Prasifka, on strategic issues relating to aviation regulation.
Mr. William Prasifka, Commissioner for Aviation Regulation, attended before the Committee for a general discussion on strategic issues relating to aviation regulation. Mr. Prasifka was accompanied by Mr. Cathal Guiomard (Head of Economic Affairs) Ms. Phil Conlon (Deputy Head of Travel Trade) Ms. Pat O’Connor (Head of Legal Affairs) Ms. Paula O’Brien (EU Affairs Executive) and Mr. Kieran Baker (Head of Administration) from the Commission on Aviation Regulation.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session. The Vice-Chairman thanked the Mr. Prasifka and his colleagues for the very informative discussion. The witnesses withdrew.
Adjournment
8.The Committee adjourned at 4.04 p.m. sine die.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.
Chairman.
16 November 2005.
Wednesday, 16 November, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.37 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, Tony Dempsey*, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell and Róisín Shortall.
Senators: Paddy Burke and Timmy Dooley
*Deputy Dempsey attended in substitution for Deputy Martin Brady.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Ollie Wilkinson and Senator David Norris.
In Private Session
3Item discussed in private session
4Item discussed in private session
5Item discussed in private session
6Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.45 p.m.
7.Discussion on the Report by IBEC ‘Road Infrastructure Priorities’.
Mr. Reg McCabe (Director, Transport and Logistics Council, IBEC) Mr. Finn Lyden (Managing Director, SIAC Construction) Mr. Henry McGarvey (Deputy President of IBEC North-West, Chief Executive, Pramerica Systems) and Mr. Bill Jones (Managing Director, Rockall Marine, Killybegs) made a presentation to the Committee on the report by IBEC ‘Road Infrastructure Priorities’.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session. The Chairman thanked the delegation for the very informative discussion. The witnesses withdrew.
8.Scrutiny of EU legislative proposals
The Committee scrutinised EU legislative proposal Com (2005) 429 on common rules in the field of civil aviation security.
Mr. Robin McKay, Principal Officer, and Mr. Liam Duggan, Assistant Principal Officer from the Department of Transport briefed the Committee and answered Members’ queries on the Proposal.
Adjournment
9.The Committee adjourned at 4.48 p.m.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.
Chairman.
23 November 2005.
Wednesday, 23 November, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.07 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Deputy Arthur Morgan attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Róisín Shortall.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
7.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.24 p.m.
8.Discussion on North-South Transportation Systems with SDLP Delegation
Cllr. Margaret Ritchie, MLA, Mr. Tommy Gallagher, MLA, Mr. John Dallat, MLA and Ms. Nuala O’Neill made a presentation to the Committee on North-South Transportation Systems.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session. The Chairman thanked the delegation for their contributions. The witnesses withdrew.
Adjournment
9.The Committee adjourned at 3.31 p.m.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.
Chairman.
30 November 2005.
Wednesday, 30 November, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.34 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Mark MacSharry* and Tom Morrissey.
*Senator MacSharry substituted for Senator Dooley for part of the meeting.
Deputies Sean Crowe, Joe Higgins, Sean Ryan and Trevor Sargent attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
Senator Brendan Daly attended in accordance with Seanad Standing Order SO 74(2).
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Paddy Burke.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
7.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 3.05 p.m.
8.Future developments in Aer Lingus: Discussion with Mr. Dermot Mannion, Chief Executive.
Mr. Dermot Mannion, Chief Executive of Aer Lingus, made a presentation to the Committee on future developments in Aer Lingus. Mr. Mannion was accompanied by Mr. Greg O’Sullivan, Company Secretary.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session. The Chairman thanked Mr. Mannion for his contributions. The witnesses withdrew.
Adjournment
9.The Committee adjourned at 5.03 p.m.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.
Chairman.
14 December 2005.
Wednesday, 14 December, 2005
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House at 2.35 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
In Private Session
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6.Item discussed in private session
7.Item discussed in private session
8.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 3.11 p.m
9.Discussion on the Report of the Joint Committee ‘Proposal for a Dublin Metro System’.
Mr. Cormac Rabbitt, Dargan Project, made a presentation to the Committee on the proposed Dublin Metro in response to the report of the Joint Committee ‘Proposal for a Dublin Metro System’.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session during the course of which Mr. Rabbit undertook to supply the Committee with a paper outlining areas where the Madrid Metro procurement model excelled in comparison to other Metro procurement methods.
The Chairman thanked the Mr. Rabbitt for his presentation. The witness withdrew.
Adjournment
10.The Committee adjourned at 4.18 p.m.
____________________
John Ellis T.D.
Chairman.
11 January 2006.
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