Sir, - It is one matter for a columnist to have his opinion, but when the information is factually incorrect, it is necessary to take issue. Kevin Myers comments in his Irishman's Diary of December 19th in relation to FLS Aerospace were misleading and potentially both damaging and embarrassing to our business and reputation.
FLS Aerospace would like it clarified that we are a private company whose market position is very much based on our ability and our performance. Our Dublin facility, which has been under private ownership for the past three years, has delivered improved performance year on year. This has been achieved independently and without State aid. Indeed, over the same period we have contributed greatly to the Irish economy.
We have recently come under some pressure due to an international reduction in demand for aircraft maintenance, and our planned restructuring, announced in November, is being undertaken to ensure that we continue to be a viable company.
In this context, FLS Aerospace would very much welcome the business proposed by Sikorsky's representatives which would see approximately $130 million of additional revenue injected into the Irish economy at a time when many businesses, not only those in north Co Dublin, are experiencing a slowdown. We are also encouraged by more recent approaches from both EADS, Eurocopter's parent company, and EH Industries regarding possible business for FLS Aerospace and await the Government's decision on this matter. - Yours, etc.,
Mary Mannion, Head of Communications, FLS Aerospace, Dublin Airport.