Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

I accept that. I will take the matter up with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation to see if something could be done for those involved.

The Deputy also referred to the difficulties at Aer Lingus and the cuts that have been made. I accept that the process involved is very painful. I do not know where the wages, etc., are being set. I am not sure they are being set by Ryanair or anyone else. The aviation industry is experiencing an extremely difficult period. Aer Lingus needs to continue with the process it currently has in train in order to try to survive. Sacrifices were made by Aer Lingus employees in the past. I am of the view that the case which has been put forward to the effect that cabin crew previously made major sacrifices is not unreasonable. Unfortunately, as a result of the downturn in both the economy and the aviation industry, they are being asked to make even further sacrifices. I am confident that if Aer Lingus can achieve what it has set out to achieve, there are better times ahead for both it and its staff.

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