Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

The pensions issue is being resolved. Proposals have been communicated to the company, the unions and the employee share ownership trust. The company's scheme is a private pension scheme operated by the trustees of the company, rather than a State pension scheme. Very effective solutions, involving a combination of increased staff, employer contributions and a possible upfront payment arising out of the sale of Aer Lingus, are in place. These details are being worked out.

The Deputy is aware and might acknowledge that Aer Lingus is by far the largest carrier on the transatlantic route out of Shannon Airport. The company carries more than 400,000 passengers per annum.

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