Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The answer to both of the Deputy's questions is "No"; the Government has not made a decision on the question of a bid by IAG for Aer Lingus, and the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport did not make a recommendation to the Cabinet in respect of the offer being considered. The Deputy outlined a number of important elements which concern our country in this regard. The Government is the guardian of the public interest and it must take into account much wider considerations than just the potential value or the amount that might be realised by the sale of the shares owned by the Government. As Deputy Martin pointed out, there are considerations in respect of regionalisation, connectivity, employment and access to and exit from the country. We are an island.

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport briefed the Cabinet this morning. He has established an interdepartmental group. The names of the advisers will be announced tomorrow when the tenders have been finalised and allocated. The Minister will make this announcement. The interdepartmental group covers the Departments mentioned by Deputy Martin. The answer to both of the Deputy's questions is "No".

The Minister did not brief the Cabinet with a recommendation. The discussions taking place will continue for some time. The offer is not yet formal and Aer Lingus is now in a period of reflection on an offer. Everybody understands the importance of this to our country, our economy and our people in terms of access, connectivity and regional implications beyond the valuation to be put on the airline in this regard. All of these matters must be considered very carefully and comprehensively by the Government. This is a matter of great interest, but the Government is only one component of the make up of Aer Lingus. It is only one component because Deputy Martin's party privatised Aer Lingus more than ten years ago.

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