Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a matter (details supplied) [38287/12]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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This question concerns the recent Ryanair takeover offer for Aer Lingus.

The paper prepared by the Central Representative Council, which is enclosed with the correspondence referred to in the question was sent directly to me by the CRC. The CRC represents the trade unions in Aer Lingus and I am familiar with the arguments they put forward against Ryanair's offer. 

The European Commission conducted an initial examination of the takeover offer under EU merger control rules, (a Phase I examination) and announced on 29th August 2012 that it has opened a more in-depth examination (Phase II examination) of the offer because the Phase I examination indicated potential competition concerns.

The Commission now has until 16 January 2013 to take a decision on whether the proposed transaction would significantly impede effective competition. Ryanair’s Offer has now lapsed in accordance with the Irish Takeover Panel Rules. However, Ryanair has declared its intention to re-bid for Aer Lingus in the event that the European Commission approves of the merger. My Department will continue to closely monitor the competition case over the coming months.