Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left) | Oireachtas source

I can understand the Government's position, but a slice of cake is better than no bread at all. While I would like the airline to be 100% in State ownership, 25% is certainly better than nothing in terms of securing the objectives which the Government has outlined. The Minister has alluded to the other significant shareholder, but their silence against the backdrop of this bid is of particular concern. There is a belief out there that there is possibly a tacit agreement between Ryanair and IAG that the proposed move would be good for both airlines. That would undoubtedly cause concern to Aer Lingus workers.

I ask the Minister to address the point about entering legally-binding agreements. The history of such agreements in the airline is not good. Litigation around the TEAM Aer Lingus letters of comfort is still ongoing after 21 years. Has the interdepartmental group sought the supposed guarantees? History has shown us that they do not stack up at the end of the day. What is the Minister's approach to that in the discussions?

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