Airport debt row - Row could affect entire region

The row over the Cork Airport debt has descended into the realm of farce with the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) apparently assuming prerogative over the elected Government.

Members of Cork Airport Authority (CAA) were due to meet with Transport Minister Martin Cullen last evening under what would have to be described as intolerable conditions.

Is it the minister and Government who have the final say on the €160 million debt, or is it the DAA? It is an apt question, as the former seem to have washed their hands of the issue and surrendered their responsibility to the latter.