Richard Branson has said it would be "absolutely wrong" if IAG - the owner of British Airways - was allowed to buy Aer Lingus.

Virgin Atlantic has warned the proposed takeover of Aer Lingus could jeopardise long haul connections through Britain and reduce flight options for Irish passengers.

Adding extra conditions to the sale of Aer Lingus to IAG may not be enough to avoid a monopoly on the route, Virgin Atlantic has said.

Representatives from Virgin Atlantic are expected to express concerns about the potential sale of the Government's stake in Aer Lingus to IAG, at a meeting of the Transport Committee later.

Representatives of Virgin Atlantic could be asked to appear before a group of TDs and Senators to discuss their concerns over the possible sale of Aer Lingus.