Government should sell Aer Lingus stake

AER LINGUS was probably the most prestigious semi-state body (SSB) in Ireland.

Growth and success was built on a strong reputation for customer service over many decades. It became the apple in the Government’s eye and for many citizens travelling in and out of Ireland for decades.

This changed when the Government decided to privatise the airline. But the Government can’t really have it both ways — it can’t ‘cash in’ and still maintain a minority shareholding.