Jobs Minister Richard Bruton has said the decision on any takeover of Aer Lingus is “about jobs, both in the airline but also in the wider economy.” Mr Burton spoke to reporters today about the process the government will go through before reaching a final decision.

The Tánaiste has declined to say whether she's in favour of the proposed takeover of Aer Lingus.

It's after her party colleague Pat Rabbitte said he thought missing out on the deal would be a mistake.

Unions and management at Aer Lingus and the International Airlines Group are meeting this afternoon to discuss the bid.

Minister Joan Burton says she'll await a report from the Transport Minister before making up her mind

“I think it’s important that we actually get the reports and that we have to look at this in the round in relation to what’s in the best interests of Ireland, what’s in the best interests of employment in Aer Lingus, what’s in the best interest of the future of aviation in the country,” Ms Bruton said.

Aer Lingus management, trade unions and IAG met today to discuss the takeover bid, with one union worker claiming workers were ‘warming’ to the offer.