Unions deny ‘warming’ to Aer Lingus takeover

At a private meeting between IMPACT trade union and a group of Labour deputies, union officials were described as “warming” to the IAG bid.

IMPACT officials told deputies they would consider supporting the bid if the kind of commitments they are looking for are met.

But these are predominantly in the area of employment and Labour  fears they do not address concerns about connectivity and the Heathrow slots.

However, a union spokesman last night said it was made “perfectly clear” at the meeting that it remains IMPACT’s current position that “we don’t believe this takeover is a good deal for the country, for workers or for the economy”.

The spokesman said any suggestion that they are “warming” to the deal represents a “misinterpretation” of what was said at the meeting.

The reaction from the IMPACT representatives surprised some of those TDs present, who were left with the impression that the union is willing to change its stance if the commitments around employment are met.

“Their response was more nuanced... they said they would consider supporting the deal if their conditions are met,” said one source present.

IAG chief executive Willie Walsh has met union officials and is due to meet the Government’s interdepartmental working group this week.

Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe said at the weekend an improved offer by IAG must be made “sooner rather than later”.

Labour sources admitted that any decision by a union as large as IMPACT to back the deal would put pressure on their opposing position.

Nonetheless, IMPACT representatives told the meeting yesterday that they still have a number of concerns surrounding the protection of jobs and the maintaining of previous employment agreements with Aer Lingus.

Speaking to the Irish Independent last night, Labour TD for Dublin North East Sean Kenny said the party still has concerns surrounding jobs, connectivity and the Heathrow slots.

“The ball is very much still in IAG’s court to address those concerns,” he said.

Labour’s Joe Costello said: “In general, the position has not advanced any further and our concerns remain.”