The Minister for Public Enterprise, Mary O'Rourke, is to consider a possible trade sale of Aer Lingus, as an alternative to a flotation of the company.
It had been expected that the Government would privatise the state airline through a stock market flotation. With the chances of a successful flotation now receding, however, RTE News understands Ms O'Rourke is considering other options.
Meanwhile, judgement has been reserved until tomorrow morning in the injunction proceedings being taken by suspended Aer Lingus chief executive Michael Foley against the airline.
Earlier the court was told that Mr Foley, declined the opportunity to ask questions and identify further witnesses during the investigation of two complaints of sexual harassment against him.
Counsel for Aer Lingus said Mr Foley now wanted the opportunity to do what he had earlier declined to do.
Earlier it was heard there was a real and substantial risk that Michael Foley would be dismissed if an injunction were not granted.
