Dick Spring
Ceist:34 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she remains committed to the flotation of Aer Lingus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27676/00]
Written Answers. - Semi-State Bodies.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:37 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Pub Enterprise Enterprise if she has given any indication of the strategy that she wishes to have followed by Aer Lingus prior to any public offering of shares by the company; and if so, if she will outline the details of such a strategy. [27378/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 37 together.
My strategy for Aer Lingus is based on the sectoral objectives and the shareholder mandate outlined in my Department's Statement of Strategy dated April 1998. The cornerstone of that strategy was and remains that the airline must continue to operate in accordance with strict commercial criteria so as to secure the company's future as a strong and viable airline providing air services with all our main tourism and export markets.
My strategy has not been changed arising from the proposed flotation of the airline. I am committed to implementing the Government's decision of 14 December 1999 in relation to the Aer Lingus IPO once the present industrial relations issues have been resolved. The precise timing for the IPO will be influenced by market conditions and, of course, the enactment of the enabling legislation.