Dáil debates

Wednesday, 27 May 2015

12:00 pm

Photo of Enda KennyEnda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

-----and neither did the Minister. It is an internal Aer Lingus document. What has happened will lead to a strengthening of the position of Aer Lingus in so far as the country is concerned in terms of employment, connectivity and growth potential into the future.

When Aer Lingus was privatised in 2006 a very weak arrangement was put in place, with absolutely no guarantee of control or influence over either slot disposal-use or connectivity. The decision of the Cabinet yesterday is an enhancement of the original offer made to the Minister for Transport and restores a degree of influence that was not present last week, namely, the restoration of the authority given away during the privatisation of Aer Lingus in 2006. Deputy Martin will note that all three airports, Shannon, Cork and Dublin, have endorsed the opportunity to grow the airline, to increase employment and to retain Ireland's connectivity with the world in a very much stronger state than heretofore. Knock Airport, as a fourth airport, will have the opportunity to grow through IAG connections via Gatwick Airport.

I did not see the report and neither did the Minister. I am confident that the European Commission will approve and endorse the proposal to dispose of the 25.1% shareholding to IAG.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.