Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 95: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of interested parties that expressed an interest to her and the agencies under her aegis in purchasing a company (details supplied) at Dublin Airport; if airlines approached her with a view to purchasing the company or a part thereof; if so, the airlines in respect of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26519/09]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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On 12 February 2009, SR Technics Group (SRT) announced that it planned to exit its business at Dublin Airport and layoff 1135 employees.

Following the decision IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland formed a project team to promote the operation through the IDA Ireland overseas network and to meet with and assess expressions of interest in the operation.

I am informed by the agencies that 5 bona-fide proposals were received by them to continue an MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) business at Dublin Airport.

I was not approached by any airline with a view to purchasing the company or part of it.

Following a series of contacts with both the company and Government interests in the United Arab Emirates, I am pleased to record that on 4th June, SR Technics indicated they had agreed in principle to sell the bulk of its aircraft maintenance operations at Dublin Airport to Dublin Aerospace Ltd, an Irish company. I am hopeful that this company's proposal will result in the recommencement of an MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) business at Dublin Airport. The full support of the State development agencies has been made available to all interested parties including Dublin Aerospace Ltd with a view to providing every possible assistance.

Negotiations are ongoing between SR Technics and Aer Lingus on the provision of Line Maintenance and other maintenance services at Dublin Airport. These negotiations have not yet concluded.