Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Is it correct to conclude from the Minister's response that he believes the expert panel's report provides the best framework for finding a resolution to the dispute? If so, has the Minister commenced a process of engagement with the directors of the relevant boards, given that he appoints all the directors of the board of the Dublin Airport Authority and a minority of directors of the board of Aer Lingus? Has he met directors of the boards to communicate his desire to have the recommendations of the expert group implemented and to encourage both companies to engage?

The Minister stated that the resolution of the current difficulties is, in the first instance, a matter for the trustees and companies involved. He has a strong hand to play in this dispute, however, given that the State is the majority shareholder in the Dublin Airport Authority and has a significant shareholding in Aer Lingus. I encourage him to use this position to try to achieve a resolution as quickly as possible.

This is a difficult issue for workers, retirees and those in a deferred position. It is a matter of particular concern for members of the public and the tourism industry that a continuous threat of strike action hangs over them as a result of the legacy issues involved in the superannuation scheme. We see the damage being done in France as a result of strike action by certain aviation workers. The sooner the issue at Dublin Airport is resolved, the better it will be for all concerned.

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