Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 March 2015
135. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will report on meetings he has had with Aer Lingus stakeholders, regarding the sale of the State's shares in the airline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9973/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraFirstly it is important to point out that IAG has made a proposal to make an offer only and no formal offer has yet been made for Aer Lingus.
I have not had meetings with Aer Lingus stakeholders but I have paid particular attention to the views expressed by stakeholders during sessions of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications.
In my recent statement I have clearly set out the Government's position on the matter which is that the current IAG proposal does not at present provide a basis on which the Government could provide an irrevocable commitment to accept an offer. I have also pointed out that, in line with stated policy, the Government remains open to considering any improved proposal which IAG may bring to the Steering group and I have outlined the basis on which further consideration of any such proposals would be undertaken.
