Harney responds to Rabbitte attacks

Tánaiste Mary Harney has faced strong criticism from Labour leader Pat Rabbitte over plans to break Aer Rianta into three separate companies.

Speaking in the Dáil this morning, Deputy Rabbitte criticised the proposed break-up and implied that it was being done to benefit Ryanair.

However, Ms Harney dismissed this and said the break-up would boost business and jobs at the three airports.

“The reality is that, under one umbrella, it is not possible for Shannon in particular and Cork to a lesser extent to reach their full potential,” she said.

“We want local autonomy so the local boards can enter into agreements with airlines to bring more services and more passengers to all our airports.”