Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Concerns about the potential sell-off of Aer Lingus will not have been assuaged by the Taoiseach's answer. My concern is the Government will follow the example of Fianna Fáil on this issue, as it has on so many other issues. When Fianna Fáil privatised Aer Lingus, Sinn Féin opposed it tooth and nail, and an Teachta Martin was a very prominent member of the Government at the time. The Taoiseach acknowledged that direct air services, air route conductivity and other elements are vital for investment, tourism and business on this island. Tens of thousands of jobs throughout the island rely on global air connections.

Let us be very clear. The recommendation from the board that the airline be sold to IAG cannot go ahead without the Government's approval and the Taoiseach should not approve this sell-off. A likely outcome could well be major job losses and the end of important air connections, including the strategically important Heathrow slots. It is also reported, and the Taoiseach might be able to comment on this, that senior executives at Aer Lingus would earn more than €30 million from their bonus share schemes if a sell-off proceeds. If that is true, the Government is facing a choice of either rewarding wealthy businessmen at the expense of Irish citizens or defending Irish national interests.

I repeat that this sell-off cannot go ahead unless the Taoiseach agrees to it, and he has the authority and the responsibility to block it and build upon and expand the work that has been done in Aer Lingus. Will he take this opportunity? I ask him to revise his earlier answer and assure citizens, airline workers and business people across this State and the island of Ireland that he will not support the sell-off of a company which is of such hugely important strategic significance.

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