A major confrontation is looming between unions and the Government about the future of Aer Rianta and Dublin Airport, with fresh criticism of the Minister for Transport, Mr Brennan, coming from ICTU general secretary Mr David Begg.
In a letter this week to Mr Brennan, Mr Begg raised concerns about the Minister's approach to Aer Rianta's future and the amount of consultation permitted to staff. Mr Begg expressed concern about the Minister's timetable in relation to breaking up Aer Rianta and the threat it poses to jobs.
Mr Brennan said yesterday he wanted to go to Government as early as next month with plans for Aer Rianta and Dublin Airport. Sources said the Minister was anxious to get Cabinet agreement as soon as possible. He said yesterday that Shannon and Cork airports needed greater autonomy.
Mr Begg warned, however, that no timetable should undermine proper consultation with staff or else the final decision could prove disastrous in terms of jobs.
Mr Begg's intervention in the debate follows yesterday's publication of a new report on the viability of an independent terminal at Dublin Airport. The report said it would give airlines a choice between airport operators.
Senior aviation industry figures have called on Mr Brennan to press ahead with his plans, including Desmond and Ulick McEvaddy, who own land near the airport.
Aer Rianta continues to oppose the plan, however, claiming similar ideas have failed in other countries. The report, while broadly supportive of a new terminal, provides some comfort to Aer Rianta by pointing out that landing charges in the Republic are low compared to other jurisdictions.