The CMA has no powers to block the proposed privatisation.

Any proposed privatisation has to be viewed in that context.

Aer Lingus workers today threatened to strike if the Government proceeded with the proposed privatisation plan without consultation.

According to the proposed privatisation plan, a deal has to be completed by April 23 or it becomes invalid.

Minister for Transport Martin Cullen is to meet union representatives this afternoon over the proposed privatisation of Aer Lingus.

While the door was left open for further talks with management, members backed the union's stance on the proposed privatisation.

State-owned airline Aer Lingus has selected Merrion Capital and Goldman Sachs as advisers to the company on its proposed privatisation.

Siptu members at Aer Lingus voted this evening to hold a ballot for industrial action over the proposed privatisation of the State airline.

Trading in shares of Frasers Property (China) have been suspended pending the release of an announcement in relation to the proposed privatisation.

The discussions surrounding the proposed privatisation of Aer Lingus is giving the Government the perfect excuse to delay making a decision, it was claimed tonight.