Vol. 466 No. 1
237 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the encouragement, if any, the Government has given to Aer Lingus to develop appropriate strategic alliances with other airlines; the effect, if any, such alliances may have on existing Aer Lingus employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10938/96]
As I stated in reply to a similar question as recently as 23 April last, and on previous occasions, the Government will continue to encourage Aer Lingus to develop appropriate strategic alliances with other airlines as part of its overall development strategy. This approach is consistent with the document on Irish aviation policy published in February 1994, and with the company's restructuring programme.
The way forward is for Aer Lingus to align itself with major international players in the aviation sector. This is an integral part of the way in which development takes place in the industry and Aer Lingus has been quite active in the forging of such alliances in recent times. The worldwide partnership agreement with Delta Airlines was the most significant to date.
The Aer Lingus group chief executive has recently stated publicly that these commercial initiatives pose no threat to jobs in Aer Lingus. He added that, on the contrary, by allowing Aer Lingus to grow its business, strategic alliances will actually improve employment prospects in the company.
