Aer Rianta unions plan more talks with Brennan

Industry and Employment CorrespondentFurther unrest over the future of Aer Rianta is unlikely for the immediate future, following preliminary talks yesterday between unions and the Minister for Transport, Mr Brennan.

Both sides agreed to a "period of reflection" before meeting again, in about two weeks, to draw up a process for talks.

Yesterday's meeting, which lasted for more than two hours, was described as a "full and frank exchange" by Mr Arthur Hall of the Technical, Electrical and Engineering Union (TEEU).

The union delegation, led by the ICTU general secretary, Mr David Begg, had been extremely critical of the way in which the announced break-up of Aer Rianta had been handled, he said.

Unions claim Mr Brennan breached a commitment by the Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, agreed under the terms of the partnership programme Sustaining Progress, that unions would be consulted on changes in the semi-State sector.

Mr Brennan insists that he consulted widely on his proposals, with unions and others, before making his decision.

A spokesman for the Minister said he had outlined the reasons behind the move at the meeting, and suggested that a series of further talks take place. These would be aimed at ensuring that all parties derived "maximum benefit" from the Government's decision to break Aer Rianta into three stand-alone entities.

Both sides had agreed to get in contact again. Mr Hall said unions requested that an independent facilitator be appointed to chair any discussions and Mr Brennan had said he would give a response to this when the sides met again. The union side also asked that the Minister refrain from making any more announcements on the future of Aer Rianta pending further discussions.

"He said he would reflect on that request," Mr Hall said.

Unions are particularly concerned that Mr Brennan might announce approval for a new private terminal for Dublin Airport, a move which they would strongly oppose. It is understood, however, that a decision on that issue is unlikely before the autumn.

ICTU's vice-president, Mr Peter McLoone of IMPACT, and Mr Jack O'Connor, the SIPTU vice-president, also attended yesterday's meeting.

Mr Brennan is to hold talks early next week with the three Aer Rianta directors, including the chairman, Mr Noel Hanlon, who have rejected requests to stand down from the board.

Mr Hanlon, Mr Liam Meade and Ms Freda Hayes have all indicated their willingness to implement Government policy, but said they do not wish to stand down from the board at this time.

This has resulted in the Minister having to postpone the announcements of new independent boards of directors to the airports in Dublin, Shannon and Cork. It is understood that no talks with the three directors are scheduled for the weekend.

Pending further talks, unions say they will continue their campaign against the break-up of the company.