Chambers Ireland Urges EU Commission to Reject Ryanair – Aer Lingus Merger

ATUC Reject Merger Proposal

Chambers Ireland has today (12/02/13) called on the European Commission to reject Ryanair’s proposal to increase its stake in Aer Lingus. The call comes following a Chambers Ireland submission to the European Commission on the proposal. 

Speaking this morning, Ian Talbot, Chambers Ireland Chief Executive, said “As an island economy reliant on FDI and exports, it is vital that our connectivity with Europe and beyond remains intact. Any merger between Ryanair and Aer Lingus would be anti-competitive and bad for Irish business. In any industry competition is vital and Irish and international business users should have choice between a range of airlines, standards and services, including cargo handling from service providers committed to Ireland in the long term.”

Seán Murphy, Chambers Ireland Air Transport Users Council Spokesperson added “Heathrow is a vital hub for Irish business, offering connectivity to key destinations across the globe. A Ryanair takeover raises major concerns regarding the future of these vital slots and long term access for Irish business users.”

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For further information contact Amy Woods, Chambers Ireland on 01 400 4319, 086 6081605 or email amy.woods@www.chambers.ie 

Notes to Editors:
About Chambers Ireland Submission to the EU Commission
Chambers Ireland recently made a submission to the Transport, Post and Other Services section of DG Competition in the European Commission highlighting the negative impacts of a possible Ryanair – Aer Lingus merger. The submission can be accessed here.