Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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961. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding a pension scheme, and the sale of Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11160/15]

Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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993. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will not sell the State’s share in Aer Lingus until the deferred Irish Airlines (General Employees) Superannuation Scheme matter is resolved in relation to the pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11967/15]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 961 and 993 together.

Firstly, I must make it clear once again that the IASS and its funding are primarily matters for the scheme's Trustee, the companies participating in the scheme, the scheme members and the Pensions Authority.

The Deputy will be aware that the Trustee proposal, as approved by the Pensions Authority, was implemented on 31 December 2014 with a freezing of the scheme and a reduction in pensions. The IASS Trustee has confirmed that the measures being implemented are in the overall best interest of the members of the IASS as a whole and are fully compliant with national and EU law.​ 

I understand that members of the Expert Panel sought confirmation from the employers that the principles discussed and agreed with the Panel in relation to funding to be made available to deferred members had been followed and that confirmation of this was provided to the Panel.

In relation to the possible use of the proceeds from any sale of the State's shareholding in Aer Lingus, any such proceeds would be payable directly to the Central Fund.