Aer Lingus privatisation - Unions need job security reassurance

Expectations that the Cabinet would fully endorse the plan to privatise Aer Lingus were realised at its meeting yesterday, despite serious reservations expressed by SIPTU.

Understandably, the union and its members were very concerned about their future employment, and it remains to be seen whether the Cabinet’s decision to retain a stake of just over 25% in the State airline should reassure them on this issue.

Government assurances should - indeed, must - assuage the union’s worry, especially as workers have a 15% shareholding in the company.