Ahern hints that Europe may decide Aer Lingus fate
17/10/2006 - 15:49:51The Taoiseach has hinted that the future ownership of Aer Lingus could be decided by the EU Commission.
He made his remarks in the Dáil where he was questioned about the ownership of the State airline by Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny.
There are fears of a monopoly situation developing here if Ryanair successfully buys out Aer Lingus, which would be contrary to European Union competition law.
The Taoiseach said the matter will be raised at EU level shortly.
He said today: “It looks as if it's an EU competition issue, I think that's becoming clear and I would hope to be able to raise this myself.
“I have been afforded a meeting with the full commission in a few weeks time and I will have an opportunity of putting our side of the case.”
