Dempsey accused of cavalier approach to Shannon row

A Fianna Fáil backbencher has launched a scathing attack on Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey over his attitude to the Shannon controversy.

Clare TD Timmy Dooley has accused Mr Dempsey of adopting a cavalier approach to the Aer Lingus decision to axe its services between Shannon and Heathrow.

His comments came as a Fianna Fáil cumann in Ennis voted overwhelmingly in favour of a motion of no confidence in the Taoiseach over his lack of leadership on the matter.

Mr Dooley says Minister Dempsey has shown scant regard for the people of the mid-west by failing to recognise the seriousness of the Aer Lingus decision.