Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister's explanation for his stance. He indicated that, since he did not expect the taxpayer to have a liability, he should remain at some remove from the situation. The people in question were effectively State employees. I understand the legislation underpinning the separation of the pension fund but the State ultimately has a liability. This will need to be addressed in some manner. If and when the Minister privatises Aer Lingus in line with the Government's decision, the capacity to raise revenue for the fund will be stripped from the trustees. It appears there will be a requirement for somebody to make good on the expectations of these individuals and I hope the Minister can provide certainty for the pensioners who currently are feeling very aggrieved.

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