Aer Lingus chair and CEO have questions to answer

The chairman of the Oireachtas Transport and Communications Committee has been requested to invite Aer Lingus chairman, Colm Barrington and its CEO, Christoph Mueller to appear before the committee.

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Transport, Tourism and Sport, Timmy Dooley said they should appear before the committee to answer the questions that remain outstanding surrounding connectivity following the IAG presentation last week.

Deputy Dooley commented, “Both Mr Barrington and Mr Mueller need to address the serious concerns that have been raised by those involved in the tourism sector who recognise the importance of our connectivity to the United States and Heathrow. The current links are also of fundamental importance for the pharmaceutical industry in the Cork region and for the engineering and financial services sector in the west of Ireland.

“The significant concerns that have been raised regarding the potential downside risks of the proposed takeover bid remain outstanding. The proposal to retain the Heathrow slots as outlined by Willie Walsh earlier this week offers no long term security. It is also worrying that no commitments have been made towards retaining connectivity between Ireland and the United States.”