Vol. 498 No. 3
21 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if the executive chairman of Aer Lingus has reported to her on his discussions with prospective partners in relation to the strategic alliance for Aer Lingus; if he has reported on discussions with Lufthansa; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26906/98]
56 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if it is her policy that, in any discussions or negotiations on a strategic alliance for Aer Lingus with potential alliance partners, the primary objective is to find the best alliance partner and that the equity is a secondary factor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26986/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 56 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply to the Priority Question No. 1 today.
In relation to the criteria for the selection of the potential partner I can confirm that the airline that best meets Aer Lingus's strategic, operational and financial requirements into the future will be the preferred partner. Such an alliance may or may not include an equity dimension.
