I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 200 together.
I have not had contact with Aer Lingus management or unions nor have I been briefed by the State-nominated directors on the Board in relation to the current industrial relations issues at the airline. The conduct of industrial relations is a matter for the company and the State's shareholding does not confer on me any direct role in this matter.
Under Company law all directors are obliged to pursue the best interests of the Company. Subject to that duty, the State's nominees on the Board of Aer Lingus have been issued with a mandate to ensure that all future decisions of the company that have significant implications for wider Government, aviation or regional development policies are considered at Board level. The mandate specifically states that the possible decisions concerned would include decisions on proposals with significant local or national economic implications including a direct impact on employment. In accordance with the mandate the State's nominees are directed to seek to reconcile commercial and public policy objectives. However, the Deputy will be aware that directors are not at liberty to disclose price sensitive information to shareholders. The mandate to the State-nominated directors is subject to the overriding obligations of all directors to uphold their fiduciary duties and protect the interests of all shareholders.
As Minister for Transport I am concerned that any disruption of services arising from possible industrial action would inconvenience the travelling public and have a negative effect on the economy which is already experiencing serious difficulties. I would therefore urge all sides to avail of the industrial relations mechanisms of the State to provide any necessary assistance in resolving current challenges faced by the management and employees of the Company.