Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise three issues, one of which has to do with the sale of Aer Lingus. Most people see Aer Lingus as the national carrier, although Ms Embleton will agree that it is part of a multinational organisation. Is that impeding the chance of grant aid from the Government to Aer Lingus to ensure that we always have the shamrock on the tail of an aircraft somewhere in the world?

My second question is on the readiness of aircraft. One pilot remarked to me recently that an aircraft is not like a car in that you cannot just put the key in the ignition and take off. It needs to be brought up to speed. How quickly can any of the fleet that has been grounded, including the transatlantic fleet, be available for flying?

I understand that only 25% to 30% of Aer Lingus's pilots are flying. Are the remainder's licences being kept up to date in order that they may start flying immediately? There is a rumour that there are plans to lay off a considerable number of pilots over the winter period. Will Ms Embleton confirm or deny that?