721. Deputy Joe O'Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a union (details supplied) representing employees of a company was instructed by persons not to put the changed the terms and conditions of some of its members' contracts to a ballot; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12441/20]

743. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the decision by Aer Lingus to cut wages, staff numbers and conditions of its employers; and if he or his officials has had discussions with the company on its plans. [12674/20]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 721 and 743 together.

The aviation industry is one of the most affected by the global pandemic. All airlines have seen severe depletion of revenue and are facing various degrees of financial challenge. My Department continues to engage regularly with airlines, airports, regulators and all relevant stakeholders during the COVID-19 Pandemic with regard to its impact.

Industrial relations are a matters for the airlines, their employees and the trade unions, and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has no role. The industrial relations machinery of the State would be available to assist all parties to reach agreement, should the need arise.