Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 155: To ask the Minister for Transport if he will re-consider his policy on the anti-privatisation of Aer Lingus; and if the proposal of a State holding company to allow Aer Lingus to be retained in the national interest will be investigated. [16724/06]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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The decision to dispose of a majority shareholding in Aer Lingus was made following detailed and comprehensive consideration of the issue by myself and my colleagues in Government. The Government agreed in its decision that the strategic development of the State Airports and Aer Lingus was essential to underpin Ireland's competitiveness, industry and tourism. Furthermore its consideration was based on an acknowledgement that the Company had an immediate need for access to equity capital to enable it to compete effectively and to fund growth and that this investment should not come from the Government.

Before making its decision on the future of Aer Lingus, the Government considered the ICTU proposal for a State Holding Company.