The Aer Lingus ESOP Trust has announced that it plans to exercise its right to buy an additional 2.8 per cent shareholding in Aer Lingus.
In a statement released today the ESOP said it has notified the Minister for Finance, Brian Cowen of its decision.
The shares are to be acquired at a price of €2.20 per share, as part of an Option Agreement with the Minister. This will leave the Government stake in the company at 25.7 per cent.
Acquisition of the shares will take place over the next two weeks.