SIPTU, the largest trade union in Aer Lingus, has called on the Government not to sell its share of the airline prior to receiving guarantees on the future of the company. Speaking on RTE, SIPTU General President, Jack O'Connor, said: “This is a major issue with very far reaching implications for the people of Ireland for a long time to come. The sale should not go ahead unless the Government receives clear and tangible guarantees around connectivity, the Heathrow slots and on the protection of jobs in Dublin, Cork and Shannon.”He added that direct employment by the company must be maintained.IAG, the owner of British Airways and Iberia, is offering just over €1.3 billion for the airline, of which the State owns a 25.1% stake and rival Ryanair holds almost 30%. The board of Aer Lingus issued a statement this morning saying it was open to the IAG bid. To listen to Jack O'Connor's interview click here SIPTU calls on Government to block sale of Aer Lingus until guarantees secured
SIPTU calls on Government not to sell Aer Lingus share
