The new aviation regulator, Mr William Prasifka, who will shortly take up the position on an interim basis, yesterday met the Minister for Public Enterprise, Ms O'Rourke.

Mr Prasifka's functions are expected to include regulating airport charges, a bone of contention between Ryanair and Aer Rianta at Dublin airport.

In addition, he will license Irish airlines, administer the travel trade protection scheme and control ground handling services at airports.

The regulator will report annually to the Dail Committee on Public Enterprise, the Comptroller and Auditor General and the Minister for Public Enterprise. Pictured above are Ms O'Rourke with her Deparement's secretary general Mr John Loughrey, and Mr Prasifka.