Dessie Ellis (Dublin North West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Mr. Walsh said AIG would retain the Aer Lingus brand. That would be important because it is an iconic brand through which the country is recognised throughout the world. However, I still worry about engaging with the unions. There has been mention of approximately 1,200 job losses. I do not know how accurate that is but that is one of the figures that has been given to us. The airline is profitable and is modern by standards with the fleet being reasonably up to date. The State has only 25.1% of the shares and I do not see why the Government should sell this off. If there is opposition from the State and that 25.1% is not on IAG's side, will that stop the company from proceeding?