John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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Question 410: To ask the Minister for Transport if the Government provides the finance for the purchase of Aer Lingus aircraft; if so, the relevant figures for the past 20 years; and if it is the Government's intention to provide such finance for this company in the future. [25362/04]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Over the past 20 years, the Government has invested a total of €260.3 million in Aer Lingus, the details of which are set out in the following table.

All the investment was provided to assist with re-structuring of the company in times of crisis. In the 20-year period, the company has replaced and grown the fleet with funds generated from internal resources and from borrowings.

John Deasy (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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Question 411: To ask the Minister for Transport if the Government has made a decision to act on a report (details supplied) commissioned by it on the future of the national airline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25363/04]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Goldman Sachs report on Aer Lingus is being considered by me and my officials. It has also been circulated to the members of the Cabinet sub-committee and a meeting of this committee will take place in the very near future.

This report will form an input into my deliberations and those of the Cabinet sub-committee prior to any decision by Government on the future of Aer Lingus. In accordance with the terms of Sustaining Progress, there will be engagement between my Department and the social partners on the future of Aer Lingus before the Government finalises its consideration of this matter.