Labour emergency motion on Aer Lingus sale
An emergency motion on the sale of Aer Lingus to be debated at the Labour party national conference tomorrow calls for comprehensive plans for the promotion of Cork and Shannon Airports.
It is one of four demands of eight rebel Labour TDs who are demanding the Government refuse to support the sale of the airline unless the concerns are met.
The draft motion, seen by this station is signed by eight TDs from Dublin, Clare and Meath.
It said Aer Lingus has survived 9-11, the economic crisis, has unique US pre-clearance, and has strong growth forecasts.
Acknowledging that workers have gone through restructuring several times, the motion - if passed - asks the Government to reject any further offer unless it:
• Addresses an independent valuation of assets, including the Heathrow slots;
• Gives reliable and meaningful guarantees around the Heathrow slots;
• Gives a registered employment agreement to protect workers terms;
• Articulates a comprehensive plan for the promotion of Cork and Shannon Airports.
Ahead of that debate tomorrow, today the conference will focus on the economy, the environment and justice.
Last night it voted to reverse dole cuts for under 26s and to include a referendum on repealing the eighth amendment in the next election manifesto.
