Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)

It appears Mr. Mueller and the Aer Lingus management team were on the verge of acting illegally in the context of the course they were allegedly going to pursue in respect of vulnerable cabin crew. It must be noted, however, that the wages and conditions for such crew appear to be set in Ryanair's headquarters. That is one of the difficulties that arises. I reiterate that ten aircraft - which were making an important contribution to the economy - were withdrawn from this country and we have not had an opportunity to discuss the issue in the House. My colleagues in Fine Gael did not think the Ryanair cuts worthy of being raised here.

A few weeks ago the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Deputy Calleary, informed Senator Brendan Ryan and I that the process relating to the globalisation fund is so long and convoluted that it will be the end of the year before moneys will become available to the 800 former employees of SR Technics. Many of these individuals are commencing courses in aviation engineering at DCU and other universities. They already trained as engineers and are now intent on moving one step up. However, the colleges do not have the funding to facilitate them in this regard. There will be an eight month wait before funding becomes available. In view of the importance of aviation to the country and its economy, would it not be possible for the Government to assist these young men and women in completing their training?

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