Minister to sell off 51% of Aer Lingus - report

Minister for Transport Mr Cullen has decided to sell off 51 per cent of Aer Lingus, according to reports this morning.

Minister for Transport Mr Cullen has decided to sell off 51 per cent of Aer Lingus, according to reports this morning.

The Minister is also expected to give the Dublin Airport Authority the go-ahead to build a second terminal at Dublin Airport.

A report in the Irish Timesearlier this month indicated the Government had yet to decide on the site of the terminal but had discussed selling a stake in Aer Lingus of at least 51 per cent.

The airline is in talks with manufacturers Airbus and Boeing about acquiring between 10 and 11 new long-haul aircraft.

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It is understood that based on a valuation of just under €600 million, the Government would have to sell over 50 per cent to draw down the €300 million required to complete a long-haul deal with Boeing or Airbus.

A report in this morning's Irish Independentindicates Mr Cullen will present Cabinet with his proposals next Tuesday that reportedly include his recommendations on a second terminal and the sale of 51 per cent of Aer Lingus.

Éanna Ó Caollaí

Éanna Ó Caollaí

Iriseoir agus Eagarthóir Gaeilge An Irish Times. Éanna Ó Caollaí is The Irish Times' Irish Language Editor, editor of The Irish Times Student Hub, and Education Supplements editor.