O'Rourke to consider Aer Lingus state aid

The Public Enterprise Minister Mary O'Rourke hinted strongly that if the EU sanctions state aid for airlines, affected by the US terrorist attacks of September 11, she'd be prepared to assist Aer Lingus.

Ms O'Rourke's comments follow her meeting with the president of the EU's Council of Transport Ministers.

The US Government has promised $5bn in aid and $10bn in loans to its airline industry.