Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will reconsider the proposed privatisation of Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17763/05]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The Government has decided, in principle, to sell a majority shareholding in Aer Lingus but to retain a significant minority stake to protect the State's key strategic interests. In making this decision, the Government is ensuring that Aer Lingus will have access to equity capital to enable it to compete effectively and to fund growth.

Significant growth potential has been identified, particularly on long haul routes, provided Aer Lingus has the appropriate cost base and access to funds to finance aircraft acquisitions. The Government decision will ensure that funds are available to support that growth and to provide financial security.

The Minister for Finance and I are moving quickly to implement this decision with the appointment of advisers to advise on the size, type and timing of the Aer Lingus sale transaction. In this regard, a request for tenders for advisers will be issued by my Department over the next few days.

In addition, I have already written to the Aer Lingus chairman and ICTU about this decision and my officials will be following up with them to make arrangements to discuss the essential preparatory work and to agree a road map for progressing the decision.