asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the Taoiseach will intervene personally with President Nixon with a view to having the New York ban on Aer Lingus lifted and the status quo in the bilateral air agreement maintained; and, if not, why.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ireland—US Air Agreement.
4.
Mr. O'Donnell
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to his questions of 16th May, 1972, when I gave an up-to-date statement on the position regarding the New York landing rights. I indicated at the close of my reply that I did not propose to make any further statement at present and that is still the position.
Is there any possibility of President Nixon stopping at Shannon on his return from Moscow?
That is another day's work.
Has this been brought to the attention of the Government?
We are, indeed, aware of where he will stop.
Mr. O'Donnell
Does the Minister recall a recent deputation to the Department and his undertaking to suggest to the Taoiseach that the Taoiseach might directly intervene? Did the Minister take that up with the Taoiseach?
That has been done and there are discussions going on between the respective Heads of Government at the moment.
Mr. O'Donnell
At what level?
At every level.
Mr. O'Donnell
The Minister serves no useful purpose in being vague about this matter. Can the Minister clarify the position? Are discussions taking place at Government level?
Yes.
Mr. O'Donnell
Before a final decision is taken will formal negotiations have to take place on the lines of those last November and December?
I would envisage this matter being settled, as the Deputy suggested, at Government level and formal negotiations should be organised——
Give him a good reception at Shannon.
Mr. O'Donnell
When is this decision likely to be taken?
I cannot say that.
When the Taoiseach meets President Nixon at Shannon.