Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

In terms of industrial relations, obviously the Government takes a keen interest in any major company with industrial relations difficulties. I have urged both sides to co-operate with each other as it is in their own strategic interests, and their own jobs. The Labour Relations Commission stated this morning that it is available to help, and whether it is necessary to bring in another party or they are best to do it themselves, they have difficulties to resolve which are best resolved in direct negotiations.

On the question of whether the appointment of two board members would have made a difference, the management made its decision and it would not have made a difference. We have made a number of good appointments to the board; we have appointed international figures in the past year or so and it is our intention to continue to appoint people who can play an important role in the future success of Aer Lingus.

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