Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 4:

In page 4, line 36, to delete paragraph (a) and substitute the following:

"(a) issue shares in accordance with the Companies Acts as part of one or more than one employee shareholding scheme, and shall be deemed always to have had the power to issue such shares and".

This matter was discussed on Second Stage. Several Senators, including Senator Dooley, highlighted the need to address this issue for those who had left Aer Lingus from 1 December 2003 and those who will leave up to 31 March 2004 as they might find themselves in no man's land. I understand having spoken to my colleague, Senator O'Toole, who will expand on the matter, and others that there has been some movement in this area and that the issue may be resolved internally rather than through this mechanism. I hope the Minister of State will ensure this happens. I eagerly await his reply.