Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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Question 172: To ask the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in reaching a decision in the funding requirements of Aer Lingus there are interests other than those of ICTU to consider; when he expects the process of consultation with them to be completed in order that a decisions in the interests of all taxpayers can be made. [7179/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I am well aware that any decisions on the future of Aer Lingus must take account of the impact of that decision not only on the company and its employees but also on the overall Irish economy, air travel customers, the airline trade and Irish tourism. Key strategic concerns were covered in the recent Goldman Sachs Report.

The consultations with ICTU are progressing and will conclude in the near future. I will then make a submission to Government which will take account of all the key issues.

My engagement with the unions as a key stakeholder is central to the process. It is a critical component of partnership, which in my view has been a major contributor to the success of the economy. Moreover, I have found my engagement with ICTU to be very valuable and it will help the Government in its efforts to position our national airline for growth in the years ahead.