Seán Crowe (Dublin South West, Sinn Fein)
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Question 109: To ask the Minister for Transport if the Government has learned from the disastrous examples of Eircom, Aer New Zealand and rail in Britain that privatisation is not an ideology for the common good; and if, in view of these examples, he will reconsider the privatisation of Aer Lingus. [16171/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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I note that the Deputy is seeking to enter into an ideological debate rather than seek information. It is clear that neither public nor private ownership serves as a guarantee of financial or commercial success and there are many examples of shortcomings and financial failure of State companies across the world.

I have set out on many occasions the rationale for the Government's decision on the future of Aer Lingus. I do not propose to reconsider the matter on the grounds suggested by the Deputy.