Vol. 565 No. 4
158 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Transport if he will ensure that a binding agreement is in place with the EU regarding US traffic to Shannon in the event that the EU Commission takes over negotiation of trans-Atlantic bilateral agreements. [11306/03]
The question of a mandate for the European Commission to negotiate an air transport agreement with the USA, which was given fresh impetus by a ruling issued by the European Court of Justice in November 2002, is still under discussion in the EU. As I stated in earlier replies on 25 March and 3 April, I am currently examining the implications for the Shannon stop policy of the ruling issued by the European Court of Justice.
159 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to liaise with interests in the Shannon area regarding the implication of a possible transfer of responsibility for trans-Atlantic bilateral agreements to the EU rather than national Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11318/03]
My Department is actively engaged in consultations with a number of interested parties in the Shannon region about the future of Shannon airport, including the issues which Deputy Killeen refers to.
Questions Nos. 160 and 161 answered with Question No. 153.
