Trade union officials have warned that IAG’s proposed takeover of Aer Lingus could lead to the Irish carrier shedding almost a third of its workforce.
Impact, which represents the majority of Aer Lingus staff, said that if British Airways’ parent is allowed to buy the Irish government’s stake in the airline, 1,200 jobs could be lost.
Aer Lingus is considering IAG’s revised offer of €2.55 per share for the airline, which values it at €1.36 billion.
However, the offer is subject to approval by the Irish government, which holds a 25.1% stake, and budget carrier Ryanair, which holds 29.8% of the shares.
Ireland’s transport minister Paschal Donohoe said the government would give the proposed deal ‘very careful examination’ before taking a decision.
"There are important considerations to be taken into account in addition to price," he said.
