The Government is being urged to reject the Aer Lingus takeover bid unless some clear cut guarantees can be secured.
It comes amid fears that the valuable Heathrow slots at Shannon and Cork could be lost if the offer by IAG is accepted, which could impact on both tourism and business in North and South Tipperary.
This morning the board of Aer Lingus said it is willing to recommend to shareholders that they accept a €1.3 billion deal.
Speaking on Tipp Today Environment Minister and Tipperary TD Alan Kelly moved to reassure those who rely on the Heathrow slots that he is well aware of their necessity.
In a statement this morning, the Aer Lingus board says it would be willing to recommend that the airline’s shareholders accept a potential €1.3 billion offer from IAG – the parent company of British Airways.
Selling Aer Lingus could bring in about €300 million for the exchequer but there are huge concerns that over a thousand jobs could be at risk
Worries have also been voiced about the future of routes in particular at Cork and Shannon Airports – which support thousands of jobs in the areas; as well as valuable landing slots at London’s Heathrow Airport.
The Heathrow slots held by Aer Lingus are seen as vital to the viability of businesses in Tipperary as they provide key connectivity to London and wider Europe.
Fianna Fail is urging the government to reject the bid – its party spokesperson Timmy Dooley fears all bets will be off once it’s a done deal.
The offer is being discussed at Cabinet today and Tipperary’s Alan Kelly says the government's shareholding in Aer Lingus is not something they could getting rid off without serious consideration as it’s a strategic asset.
And while he doesn't want to prejudge anything Minister Kelly says connectivity is key for the region here and that his priority.
