SIPTU has warned the Government that it may withdraw its support for the Nice Treaty if the European Commission’s policy on state aid to airlines is not changed.
In statement today SIPTU’s National Industrial Secretary, Mr Noel Dowling, said the trade union movement may have to revise its support for the European project if the Commission’s policy is not changed.
Yesterday the European Commission ruled out approving direct State aid for Aer Lingus but indicated that in certain circumstances, it could approve a Government loan guarantee for the airline.
Aer Lingus unions met with the Minister for Public Enterprise, Mrs Mary O’Rourke, this afternoon to discuss the airline’s plight.
SIPTU said it wished to impress upon the Minister the importance of campaigning vigorously against the Commission’s flawed policy on financial supports for airlines.
Mr Dowling is due to attend a meeting of EU transport union leaders and airlines representatives in Brussels tomorrow.
The meeting will focus on the current crisis facing the airline industry.
Mr Dowling said he will be seeking the support of the delegates present for SIPTU’s efforts to have the EU Commission’s policy changed in order to ensure the survival of Aer Lingus and other national carriers.
