Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour) | Oireachtas source

My final question relates to Aer Lingus. The Minister is correct that we are a minor shareholder at this stage. The key element in terms of Aer Lingus is competition. Deputy O’Donnell referred to the slots in Heathrow. We must carry out an in-depth analysis of the importance of the slots in terms of connectivity. We are a small trading island.

I am also concerned about the value of the slots currently to Aer Lingus. It is my understanding that regulation will come from the European Union and that it might no longer be possible to sell or transfer the slots in Heathrow owned by Aer Lingus. Currently, some of the slots are leased and it might not be possible to get the same time if it re-leases, due to changes in European regulation in the transport area. I have raised the matter with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Deputy Varadkar, and he shares my concern. The change would have a significant impact on the value of the Aer Lingus shares. What work has been done in that regard?