APPENDIX 5
PROCEEDINGS OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE
Wednesday, 11th January, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.32 p.m.
2.Attendance
Deputies:John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Tom Hayes*, Olivia Mitchell, Róisín Shortall, Joe Walsh* and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Paul Coghlan**, Brendan Daly**, Timmy Dooley, Camillus
Glynn** and Tom Morrissey
Also in attendance: Senator Kieran Phelan
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Paul Connaughton, Seamus Healy and Peter Power and Senators Paddy Burke 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
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 2.48 p.m.
7. Scrutiny of EU Legislative Proposal: Com (2005) 319 concerning new procedures for the granting of subvention to public transport operators.
Mr. Dermot McCarthy, Ms. Orla Corigan and Mr. David Garland briefed the Committee on COM (2005) 319 — Revised proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning new rules for the granting of subvention to public transport operators. The proposal was referred to the Joint Committee for further scrutiny by the EU Scrutiny sub-Committee of the Joint Committee on European Affairs.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session.
At the request of the Committee Mr. McCarthy undertook to keep the Committee informed of major developments with regard to the proposal and to provide the Committee with an information note on the following matters:
(i)The Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Transport and each of the CIE companies in relation to performance criteria for subvention payments to support public transport services, and
(ii)Liberalisation of the rail freight sector and the use of Iarnród Éireann freight lines by private rail freight operators following the withdrawal of Iarnród Éireann from the rail freight sector.
The Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation. The witnesses withdrew.
8. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 3.32 p.m. until 25 January 2006
_______________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
25th January 2006
_______________
Wednesday, 25th January, 2006
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: Martin Brady, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Paul Kehoe*, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power**, Róisín Shortall, and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley and Tom Morrissey.
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 2.50 p.m.
7. Road Safety. Discussion with Mr. Noel Conroy, Commissioner of An Garda Síochána, on issues relating to road traffic law enforcement.
Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy, Assistant Commissioner Eddie Rock and Superintendent Declan O’Brien from An Garda Síochána made a presentation to the Committee on road safety and road traffic law enforcement.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session during the course of which the Committee agreed to recommend to the Minister for Transport that legislation to provide for the seizure of motor vehicles used by non-residents which do not comply with prescribed road-worthiness standards in this country and which are registered in another country is necessary in order to strengthen enforcement powers and as a measure to help reduce casualties on the roads.
The witnesses undertook to forward the following to the Committee:
(i) Clarification on the data supplied by the Courts Service in relation to the prosecution of drink driving charges in the Cork District Court area, and
(ii) A copy of the report, when available, of the Garda internal working group established to examine the Garda processes involved in drink driving cases including the number of Garda personnel hours devoted to the prosecution of drink driving cases in the courts.
The Vice-Chairman thanked the witnesses for their presentation. The witnesses withdrew.
8. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.51 p.m. until 8 February 2006.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
8th February 2006
Wednesday, 8th February, 2006
1. The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2.38 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: Barry Andrews*, John Carty*, Jerry Cowley**, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley and David Norris.
Deputy Power, Vice-Chairman, took the chair from 3.45 p.m. until 4.00 p.m. in the unavoidable absence of the Chairman.
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 2.50 p.m.
8. Road Safety — Discussion with Mr. Noel Brett, Acting Chief Executive Officer, National Safety Council
Mr. Noel Brett, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the National Safety Council, made a presentation to the Committee on road safety.
The presentation was followed by a questions and answers session during the course of which Mr. Brett undertook to forward the following information regarding the number of road fatalities in Ireland for 2005 to the Committee:
(i) the percentage of pedestrians and cyclists fatally injured who were not wearing reflective clothing;
(ii) a breakdown of the time of day that the fatalities occurred;
(iii)the number of registered vehicles per 10,000 population in Ireland;
(iv) the number of learner drivers involved in fatal crashes.
The Chairman thanked the witness for his presentation. The witness withdrew.
9. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.30 p.m. sine die.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
22 March, 2006.
Tuesday, 22nd March, 2006
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), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Michael Lowry, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall, Ollie Wilkinson and *Seán Ryan.
Senators:Paddy Burke, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
*Attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator Timmy Dooley.
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 3.27 p.m.
7. Motion re: Proposed Sale of Aer Lingus
The Committee considered the following motion tabled and moved by Deputy Shortall—“That the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport agrees to carry out an examination of all aspects of the proposed sale of Aer Lingus and to hear the views of interested parties on the best way forward in respect of the national economy, the travelling public, the Company, the taxpayer and the workforce.”.
After discussion, it was agreed to proceed with an advertisement in the national papers next week requesting submissions on the possible privatisation of Aer Lingus from all interested parties as agreed in private session earlier, following which the Committee would invite some of those parties to meet with the Committee. It was also agreed to write to the Minister for Transport to request him to meet with the Committee on this issue and also to seek legal advice on the future position with regard to Aer Lingus’s Heathrow slots in the event of a new owner of the company.
The motion was agreed.
The meeting suspended from 4.16 p.m. to 4.17 p.m.
8. Forthcoming EU Council Meeting of Transport Ministers
The Committee was joined by the Minister for Transport, Mr. Martin Cullen, T.D., and the Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Mr. Pat “The Cope” Gallagher, T.D. The Committee heard a presentation from the Minister Cullen on the forthcoming EU Council Meeting of Transport Ministers on 27 March 2006.
Discussion ensued.
9. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 5.10 p.m. until 2.00 p.m. on 5th April 2006.
___________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
5th April 2006
Wednesday, 5th April, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.06 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 and Róisín Shortall.
Senators:Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley and Tom Morrissey.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator David Norris.
Expression of sympathy
The Chairman, on behalf of the Joint Committee, expressed the Members’ sympathy to the family of the schoolboy killed in a tragic school bus accident in Clara Co. Offaly. The Chairman also sent good wishes to the other school children injured in the accident.
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 2.22 p.m.
5.EU Scrutiny.
(a) Presentation by officials on EU Proposal COM(2005)602
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Fintan Towey, Principal Officer at the Department of Transport, on EU Proposal COM(2005)602 concerning a Proposal for a Council Regulation on the establishment of a Joint Undertaking to develop the new generation European air traffic management system (SESAR). Mr. Towey was accompanied by Mr. Kevin Doyle, Assistant Principal at the Department of Transport and Mr. Tom O’Sullivan from the Technology Division of the Irish Aviation Authority, who provided additional information to the Committee.
Discussion ensued. The Committee, having considered the proposal, asked to be kept informed of developments in relation to the proposal.
The Committee agreed it had completed its consideration of EU proposal COM (2005)602 and further agreed, in accordance with Standing Order 81(4), that a report would be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas and a copy of the report would be sent to the EU Scrutiny Sub-Committee of the Joint Committee on European Affairs and to the Department of Transport.
The meeting suspended from 2.47 p.m. to 2.49 p.m. The witnesses withdrew.
(b) Presentation by official on EU Proposal COM (2005)579
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Robin McKay, Principal Officer at the Department of Transport, on EU Proposal COM(2005)579 concerning a Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on common rules in the field of civil aviation and establishing a European Aviation Safety Agency.
Discussion ensued. The Committee, having considered the proposal, asked to be kept informed of developments in relation to the proposal. The Committee agreed it had completed its consideration of EU proposal COM (2005)579 and further agreed, in accordance with Standing Order 81(4), that a report would be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas and a copy of the report would be sent to the EU Scrutiny Sub-Committee of the Joint Committee on European Affairs and to the Department of Transport.
The meeting suspended from 3.00 p.m. to 3.02 p.m. The witness withdrew.
6. Discussion with the Irish Road Haulage Association
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Vincent Caulfield, President, and Mr. Jimmy Quinn, Vice President, of the Irish Road Haulage Association.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
7. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.08 p.m. until 6th April 2006
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
6th April 2006
Tuesday, 6th April, 2006
1. The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 9.33 a.m.
2. Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies:Martin Brady, Sean Crowe*, Paul Connaughton, John Ellis (in the Chair), Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Seán Ryan*, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey, Shane Ross** and Mary White**.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator David Norris.
The Committee agreed to hear presentations respectively from SIPTU, IMPACT and Aer Lingus Management. Each group was allocated a half-hour session.
In Public Session.
The Committee met in public session at 9.35 p.m.
3. Discussion on possible privatisation of Aer Lingus
(i) SIPTU
The Committee firstly heard a presentation from Mr. Michael Halpenny, National Industry Secretary, SIPTU. Mr. Halpenny was accompanied by Mr. Christy McQuillan, Aer Lingus Branch Secretary. Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
(ii) IMPACT
The Committee then heard a presentation from Mr. Shay Cody, Deputy General Secretary, IMPACT. Mr. Cody was accompanied by Ms. Christina Carney, Assistant General Secretary, Ms. Paul Blake, Chairperson of Cabin Crew Committee.
The Vice-Chairman took the chair from 10.22 a.m. until 10.25 a.m.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
(iii) Aer Lingus
The Committee finally heard from Mr. Dermot Mannion, Chief Executive, Aer Lingus. Mr. Mannion was accompanied by Mr. John Sharman, Chairman and Mr. Greg O’Sullivan, Financial Director/Company Secretary, Aer Lingus.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
4. Adjournment
The Joint Committee adjourned at 11.29 p.m. until 26 April 2006.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
26th April 2006
Wednesday, 26th April, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 2, Leinster House 2000 at 11.07 a.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Olivia Mitchell, Denis O’Donovan*, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators: Timmy Dooley.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senator David Norris.
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 11.16 a.m.
5. Road Safety
(a) Discussion with representatives from the Driving Instructor Register of Ireland Ltd. and the Irish Residential Driving School
The Committee heard presentations on road safety, with a focus on driving instructors and driving schools, by Mr. Des Cummins, Driving Instructor Register of Ireland Ltd. and Mr. Tony Walsh of the Irish Residential Driving School, respectively.
Discussion ensued. Mr. Cummins agreed to write to the Committee with further information on the issue of Garda clearance for driving instructors.
The meeting suspended from 12.02 p.m. to 12.04 p.m. The witnesses withdrew.
(b) Discussion with representatives of the Irish Drivers Association
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. David Russell, Secretary of the Irish Drivers Association regarding the National Car Test. Mr. Russell was accompanied by Mr. John Lernihan, Chairman, and Mr. Pat Donovan, PRO, of the Association.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
6. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 12.57 p.m. until 11 May 2006.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
11 May, 2006.
Wednesday, 11th May, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House, 2000 at 9.36 a.m.
2.Attendance
Deputies:John Ellis (in the Chair), Paul Connaughton, Michael Lowry, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Paddy Burke, Kieran Phelan* and Tom Morrissey.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Jim Glennon and Seamus Healy, and 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.Road Safety
(a) Discussion with the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána
The Committee heard a presentation on road safety and road traffic law enforcement from Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy, Assistant Commissioner Eddie Rock and Superintendent Declan O’Brien from An Garda Síochána.
Discussion ensued. The Committee agreed there should be a quarterly review with the Commissioner’s office in relation to road safety and traffic law enforcement. The witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 11.20 a.m. to 11.22 a.m.
(b) Discussion with representatives of the MOG Car Safety Programme
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Michael O’Gorman, Project Innovator and Mr. Michael Gleeson, Programme Co-ordinator regarding the MOG Car Safety Programme.
Discussion ensued. It was agreed that the MOG Car Safety Programme should be revisited during the Committee’s consideration of the graduated driving licence initiative. The Committee was invited to see a demonstration of the Programme after the meeting.
The witnesses withdrew.
6. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 11.36 until 17 May, 2006
_________________
John Ellis, T.D.,
Chairman.
17th May 2006
Wednesday, 17th May, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in public session in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 2.32 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, Sean Ryan*, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
3.Iarnród Éireann
The Chairman passed on to the Joint Committee the apologies of the management of Iarnród Éireann for their inability to attend today’s meeting. The Joint Committee noted the company’s intention to attend a meeting with the Joint Committee in the near future.
In Private Session.
4.Item discussed in private session
5.Item discussed in private session
6. Discussion with representatives of Chambers Ireland on the Transport Users Survey
The Committee heard a presentation on the Transport Users Survey 2005 by Mr. Sean Murphy, Director of Policy at Chambers Ireland. Mr. Murphy was accompanied by Ms. Jessica Dempsey, Policy and Research Advisor.
Discussion ensued. Mr. Murphy agreed to forward a breakdown of data on a regional spread for indications of transport priorities. The witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 3.34 p.m. to 3.35 p.m.
7. Discussion with representatives of Dublin Bus
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Joe Meagher, Managing Director, of Dublin Bus regarding the company’s future plans for development. Mr. Meagher was accompanied by Mr. Paddy Doherty, Business Development Manager.
Deputy Glennon took the chair from 4.08 p.m. to 4.19 p.m.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
8. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 5.01 p.m., until 18th May 2006
___________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
18th May 2006
Wednesday, 18th May, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1. Leinster House 2000 at 10.07 a.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 Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Paddy Burke, Maurice Cummins*, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
3. Opening Remarks by the Chair
The Chairman addressed the Committee and witnesses stating the meeting was providing interested groups with a formal opportunity at Parliamentary level to inform the Members and public as to the issues at play in relation to the possible privatisation of Aer Lingus.
The Chairman stated that Committee had decided to hear from the following eight groups today: Aer Lingus Craft Group of Trade Unions, SRS (Aviation) Irl. Ltd., Dublin Chamber of Commerce, Irish Tourist Industry Confederation, Chambers Ireland, Dr. Aisling Reynolds-Feighan, Rehab Group and Irish Congress of Trade Unions. Each presentation would last no more than 10 minutes and there would be no question and answer session. The Chairman advised the Committee they would also hear from the Minister for Transport on the matter on 31 May next.
4. Hearings on the proposed privatisation of Aer Lingus
(a) Aer Lingus Craft Group of Trade Unions
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Brian Gormley, Chairman, Aer Lingus Craft Group of Trade Unions. Mr. Gormley was accompanied by Mr. Niall O’Hara, Senior Shop Steward, Amicus Trade Union, and Mr. Robbie Patton, TEEU Union Representative.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 10.20 a.m. to 10.22 a.m.
(b) SRS (Aviation) Irl. Ltd.
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. P.J. O’Sullivan, former General Manager of SRS (Aviation) Irl. Ltd. Mr. O’Sullivan was accompanied by Mr. P. Derek Neville, former General Manager of Ground Handling and Marketing of the company.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 10.27 a.m. to 10.28 a.m.
(c) Dublin Chamber of Commerce
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Ronan King, Vice President of Dublin Chamber of Commerce. Mr. King was accompanied by Ms. Margaret Sweeney, Chairperson of the Chamber’s Infrastructure Committee and Ms. Gina Quin, Chief Executive.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 10.37 a.m. to 10.38 a.m.
(d) Irish Tourist Industry Confederation
The Committee heard a presentation by Ms. Catherine O’Reilly, Chairwoman, Mr. Richard Bourke, Deputy Chairman, and Mr. Eamonn McKeon, Chief Executive of the Irish Tourist Industry Confederation.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 10.46 a.m. to 10.47 a.m.
(e) Chambers Ireland
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Dan Loughrey, Chairman of Chambers Ireland’s Air Transport Users Council. Mr. Loughrey was accompanied by Mr. Sean Murphy, Director of Policy.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 10.56 a.m. to 11.03 a.m.
(f) Dr. Aisling Reynolds-Feighan
The Committee heard a presentation by Dr. Aisling Reynolds-Feighan, from the School of Economics in UCD.
Following the presentation, the witness withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 11.13 a.m. to 11.17 a.m.
(g) Rehab Group
The Committee heard a presentation by Ms. Cliodhna O’Neill, Head of Public Affairs of the Rehab Group. Ms. O’Neill was accompanied by Ms. Sonya Felton, Senior Public Affairs Executive.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 11.28 a.m. to 11.33 a.m.
(h) Irish Congress of Trade Unions
Finally, the Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Liam Berney, Industrial Officer, and Mr. Paul Sweeney, Economic Advisor at the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.
Following the presentation, the witnesses withdrew.
In Private Session
5. Item discussed in private session
6. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 11.53 a.m. until 31st May 2006.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
31st May 2006
Wednesday, 31st May, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.33 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies:John Ellis (in the Chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Paul Gogarty*, Joe Higgins*, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power, Trevor Sargent*, Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Don Lydon**, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
In Private Session.
3.Item discussed in private session
4.Item discussed in private session
In Public Session
5. Discussion with the Minister for Transport regarding the privatisation of Aer Lingus
The Committee heard a presentation on the privatisation of Aer Lingus by the Minister for Transport, Mr. Martin Cullen, T.D. Minister Cullen was accompanied by Mr. John Murphy, Assistant Secretary, Mr. Fintan Towey, Principal Officer and Ms. Ethna Brogan, Assistant Principal, at the Department of Transport.
The Vice-Chairman took the chair from 2.54 p.m. to 3.47 p.m.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 4.48 p.m. to 4.50 p.m.
6. Discussion with representatives of the National Transport Users Association
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Tom Newton of the National Transport Users Association regarding transport planning. Mr. Newton was accompanied by Professor Val Rice and Mr. Anthony Brophy of the Association.
Discussion ensued. Mr. Newton undertook to supply the Committee with details of the Association’s membership.
The witnesses withdrew.
7. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 5.12 p.m. until the 20th June 2006.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
20th June 2006.
Tuesday, 20th June, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 2 Leinster House 2000 at 2.35 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies:Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Olivia Mitchell, Peter Power (in the Chair), Róisín Shortall and Ollie Wilkinson.
Senators:Tom Morrissey and Shane Ross*.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from the Chairman, Deputy John Ellis, Deputy Martin Brady and Senators Timmy Dooley and David Norris.
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 2.48 p.m.
5. Discussion with the Dublin Airport Authority regarding the operation of Dublin Airport
The Committee heard a presentation on the operation of Dublin Airport by Mr. Gary McGann, Chairman of the Dublin Airport Authority. Mr. McGann was accompanied by Mr. Declan Collier, Chief Executive and Mr. Oliver Cussen, Company Secretary of the Dublin Airport Authority.
Discussion ensued. The witnesses withdrew.
The meeting suspended from 4.01 p.m. to 4.03 p.m.
6. Discussion with the Taxi Commissioner on the regulation of the taxi industry
The Committee heard a presentation by Mr. Ger Deering, Taxi Commissioner on the regulation of the taxi industry. Mr. Deering was accompanied by Ms. Kathleen Doyle, Director of Operations at the Commission for Taxi Regulation.
Discussion ensued.
The witnesses withdrew.
7. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.38 p.m. until Wednesday 12th July 2006.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
12th July 2006.
Tuesday, 12th July, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.35 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 Shortall, Ollie Wilkinson, Tony Dempsey*, and John Carty*
Senators:Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey, David Norris, Ann Ormonde**, Terry Leyden***, Jim Walsh***
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
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 3.02 pm
6. Discussion with the Railway Procurement Agency regarding the proposed new Luas works to be carried out.
The Committee heard a presentation on the above by Mr. Frank Allen, Chief Executive Officer, Railway Procurement Agency. Mr. Allen was accompanied by Mr. Pat O’Donaghue, Director of Design and Construction and Mr Jim Kilfeather, Project Manager.
Discussion ensued.
The witnesses withdrew.
7. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.44 p.m. sine die.
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
26th July 2006.
Wednesday, 26th July, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 10.32 a.m.
2.Attendance
The following Members were present:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Paul Connaughton, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Ollie Wilkinson, Ned O’Keeffe* Gerard Murphy** and Denis O’Donovan**
Senators:Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, Paul Bradford*** and Jim Walsh***
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Olivia Mitchell and Peter Power and Senators Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
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 10.38 am
5.Discussion with the National Roads Authority and Blackwater Engineering regarding the erection of a temporary bridge at Tincurry, Cahir, Co.Tipperary.
The Committee heard a presentation on the above by Mr. Fred Barry, Chief Executive Officer, the National Roads Authority and Mr. John Fitzgerald, Blackwater Engineering. Mr Barry was accompanied by Mr Michael Egan, Head of Corporate Affairs, the National Roads Authority and Mr Fitzgerald was accompanied by Mr John McMahon BCD Engineering.
Discussion ensued.
The witnesses withdrew.
6. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 11.02 a.m. sine die
_____________________
John Ellis TD
Chairman
12th September 2006.
Wednesday, 12th September, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Private session at 11.31 a.m., a quorum being present.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Seamus Healy, Ollie Wilkinson, John Curran*, Olivia Mitchell, Noel O’Flynn, Róisin Shortall.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, Maurice Cummins** and Terry Leyden***.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Paul Connaughton 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
6.Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 11.51 a.m. until Wednesday 20th September 2006.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
21st September 2006.
Thursday, 21st September, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Private session in Committee Room 1 Leinster House 2000 at 11.31 a.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Paul Connaughton, Noel O’Flynn and Róisin Shortall, * Ned O’Keeffe, * Joe Callanan.
Senators: Paddy Burke and ** Paul Coughlan
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Martin Brady, Seamus Healy, Ollie Wilkinson, Peter Power, and Senators Timmy Dooley 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.Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 11.38 a.m. until 4th October 2006.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
4th October 2006
Wednesday, 4th October, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Private session in Committee Room 2, Leinster House 2000 at 2.32 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Olivia Mitchell, Seamus Healy, Paul Connaughton, Ollie Wilkinson and * Peter Kelly.
Senators: Timmy Dooley, David Norris and ** John Dardis.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputies Noel O’Flynn, Peter Power, Róisin Shortall and 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.Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 14.54 p.m. until the 18th October 2006.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
18th October 2006.
Wednesday, 18th October, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.35 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Martin Brady, Olivia Mitchell, Seamus Healy, Paul Connaughton, Peter Power, Ollie Wilkinson, and Róisin Shortall.
Senators: David Norris,* Brendan Kenneally and * Eamon Scanlon.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Senators Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley and 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 2.50 p.m.
5.Discussion with Mr. Fintan Towey, Department of Transport and Mr Kevin Humphreys, Irish Aviation Authority concerning the regulation/monitoring of first aid equipment on board flights and safety standards within the Aviation industry.
The Committee heard a presentation on the above by Mr Kevin Humphreys, Director Safety Regulation, Irish Aviation Authority and Mr. Fintan Towey, Principal Officer, Aer Lingus Division, Department of Transport. Mr Humphreys was accompanied by Dr Annetje Roodenburg, Air Medical Officer and Ms Aideen Gahan, Company Secretary, Irish Aviation Authority.
During the discussions it was agreed that Mr Humphreys would meet with the two nurses who had raised the issue originally and that Deputy Ollie Wilkinson would accompany them.
The witnesses withdrew.
6. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.26 p.m. until 1st November 2006.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
1st November 2006.
Wednesday, 1st November, 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 2.32 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Martin Brady, Jim Glennon, Seamus Healy, Michael Lowry, Paul Connaughton, Peter Power, Ollie Wilkinson, Róisín Shortall, * Shane McEntee and *** Marian Harkin
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, David Norris and ** Jim Higgins
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Olivia Mitchell and Senator Tom Morrissey.
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 2.52 p.m.
8. [Item no 2006/0210] Letter from Mr Kevin Humphreys, Irish Aviation Authority. As agreed during consideration of correspondence Mr Humphrey’s letter was read out in public session so that a correction to information he supplied to the Committee at its meeting of 18th October could go on record.
9. Discussion with Mr. David Stanley, Convenience Advertising, Australia.
The Committee heard a presentation from Mr. David Stanley, on the issue of roadside drug testing in Australia.
Discussion ensued.
The witness withdrew.
10. Discussion with the Garda Commissioner Mr Noel Conroy.
The Committee heard a presentation by the Garda Commissioner, Mr Noel Conroy on road safety and random breath testing. The Commissioner was also accompanied by the Assistant Commissioner Mr Eddie Rock and Superintendent Declan O’Brien.
Discussion ensued.
The witnesses withdrew.
11. Discussion with Mr Noel Brett, Road Safety Authority.
The Committee heard a presentation from Mr Noel Brett, Road Safety Authority on the issue of road safety.
Discussion ensued.
The witness withdrew.
12. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 5.36 p.m. until 15th November 2006.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
15th November 2006.
Wednesday, 15th November 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 1, Leinster House 2000 at 3.03 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Martin Brady,Olivia Mitchell, Seamus Healy, Michael Lowry, Paul Connaughton, Peter Power, Ollie Wilkinson, Róisín Shortall, * Olwyn Enright and * Seamus Kirk.
Senators: Paddy Burke, Timmy Dooley, Tom Morrissey and David Norris.
Apologies for inability to attend were received from Deputy Jim Glennon.
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 3.35 p.m
7. Discussion with Mr Fred Barry, Chief Executive and Mr Michael Egan, Head of Corporate Affairs, the National Roads Authority.
The next item on the agenda was a discussion with Mr Fred Barry, Chief Executive and Mr Michael Egan, Head of Corporate Affairs, the National Roads Authority. Mr Gerry Murphy, Head of PPP and Tolling and Mr Hugh Creegan, Head of Programme Management also attended.
Discussion ensued.
Meeting suspended from 4.05 p.m until 4.24 p.m for Dáil Vote.
Discussion continued.
The witnesses withdrew.
8. Adjournment
There being no other business the Committee adjourned at 5.06 p.m. until 29th November 2006
____________________
John Ellis T.D.
Chairman
29 November 2006.
Wednesday, 29th November 2006
1.The Joint Committee met in Committee Room 2, Leinster House 2000 at 3.02 p.m.
2.Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Olivia Mitchell, Seamus Healy, Paul Connaughton, Peter Power, Ollie Wilkinson, Róisín Shortall and Jim Glennon.
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.
In Public Session
The Committee met in public session at 3.15 p.m.
7. Discussion with officials from the Department of Transport, IBEC and the Dublin Port Company regarding the expansion of Dublin Port and the Fisher Report.
The Committee heard a presentation from Mr. John Lumsden, Department of Transport. Also attending from the Department were Mr. Fintan O’Brien and Mr. Niall Curran.
The Committee then heard a presentation from Mr. Reg McCabe, IBEC. Also in attendance with IBEC were Mr. Liam Lacey, Irish Ferries and Mr. Pat Keenan, Irish Ports Association.
The Committee then heard a presentation from Mr. Enda Connellan, Dublin Port Company. Also attending from Dublin Port Company were Mr. Liam Lacey, Irish Ferries and Mr. Pat Keenan, Irish Ports Association.
Discussion ensued. The Chairman thanked the delegations for their contributions.
The witnesses withdrew.
8. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 5.20 a.m. until 13th December 2006
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
13th December 2006.
Wednesday 13 December 2006
1. The Joint Committee met in public session at 3.02 p.m., a quorum being present.
2. Attendance
The following members attended:
Deputies: John Ellis (in the Chair), Olivia Mitchell, Seamus Healy, Paul Connaughton, Ollie Wilkinson, Róisín Shortall and * Fiona O’Malley
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. The Dargan Report.
The next item on the agenda was a discussion with Mr Cormac Rabbitt on the Dargan Report.
Deputy Ollie Wilkinson took the Chair from 3.40 p.m until the adjournment at 4.33p.m.
Discussion ensued.
The witness withdrew.
It was suggested by both Senators David Norris and Tom Morrisey that the Committee should arrange for Mr Rabbitt to meet with both the Minister for Transport Mr Martin Cullen T.D and the RPA. However a decision on this was deferred pending consultation with the Chairman and the other members of the Committee.
8. Adjournment
The Committee adjourned at 4.33 p.m. until 24th January 2007.
________________________
John Ellis T.D.,
Chairman.
24th January 2007.
*Deputies Tom Hayes and Joe Walsh attended in substitution for Deputies Paul Connaughton and Martin Brady respectively.
**Senator Paul Coghlan substituted for Senator Paddy Burke and Senators Brendan Daly and Camillus Glynn substituted for Senator Timmy Dooley for part of the meeting.
*Attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
**Deputy Power, Vice-Chairman, took the chair at 3.48 p.m. in the unavoidable absence of the Chairman for the remainder of the meeting.
* Attended in substitution for Deputies Martin Brady and Noel O’Flynn respectively.
**Attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
*Attended in accordance with SO 90(3) [Dáil].
**Attended in accordance with SO 74(2) [Seanad].
*Attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
*Attended in substitution for Senator Timmy Dooley.
*Attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
*Attended in substitution for Senator Burke for part of the meeting.
* Attended in accordance with Dáil Standing Order 90(3).
** Attended in substitution for Senator Dooley.
*Attended in accordance with SO 74(2) [Seanad].
*Attended in substitution for Deputies Martin Brady and Noel O’Flynn respectively.
** Attended in substitution for Senator Paddy Burke.
*** Attended in substitution for Senator Timmy Dooley for part of the meeting.
*Attended in substitution for Deputy Noel O’Flynn.
** Attended in substitution for Deputies Paul Connaughton and Ollie Wilkinson respectively for part of the meeting.
*** Attended in substitution for Senators Paddy Burke and Timmy Dooley respectively for part of the meeting.
* Attended in substitution for Deputy Martin Brady.
** Attended in substitution for Senator Paddy Burke.
*** Attended in substitution for Senator Timmy Dooley.
* Attended in substitution for Deputies Martin Brady and Ollie Wilkinson respectively
** Attended in substitution for Senator Paddy Burke for part of the meeting.
* Attended in substitution for Deputy Martin Brady.
** Attended in substitution for Senator Tom Morrisey.
* Attended in substitution for Senator Timmy Dooley.
*Attended in substitution for Deputy Olivia Mitchell.
** Attended in accordance with SO 74 (2) Seanad.
*** Attended in accordance with SO 90(3) Dáil.
*Attended in accordance with SO 90(3) Dáil.
* Attended in accordance with SO 90(3) Dáil.
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