PIARAS MAC EINRI,
Madam, - The first day my daughter flew as an unaccompanied minor with Aer Lingus was the first day she was entitled to do so, her sixth birthday. She was well looked after and she loved every minute. Since that time she has flown with Aer Lingus dozens of times, before reaching the age of adulthood herself.
She was like many another child with separated parents, except that in her case, and those of some others, her parents lived in different countries.
I am eternally and profoundly grateful to Aer Lingus and its wonderful staff for making it possible for all of us to stay in touch over the past 12 years. One child's life was made happier and more fulfilled through their supportive and enlightened policy. Each time I saw her off on the plane, I knew she was in good hands.
I am sorry that Aer Lingus has now abandoned this policy. I am particularly disappointed at the shabby excuses, lacking in all credibility, which the airline has put forward.
I am very sorry to see the day when the former national carrier, which many Irish people supported through thick and thin and at considerable cost to themselves in leaner times from a sense of national pride and commitment, has reduced itself to the status of just another low-cost, couldn't-care-less airline.
Truly, the past is another country. - Yours, etc.,
PIARAS MAC ÉINRÍ,
Model Farm Road,
Cork.