Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

It is not just a question of privatisation and finding a strategic partner. I praised Aer Lingus management and workers in a reply to Deputy Sargent last week. It is not an easy issue. I accept there will be difficulties down the road.

I cannot answer Deputy Kenny's question about what these gentlemen are going to do. I thank them for their contribution. Two of them came from the ranks and have done a good job. I am sure there are other such people still in the ranks. We know we have to make decisions. We are aware there are difficulties in world aviation. We accept the Shannon stop-over is an issue. We have to come to final decisions on these matters.

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