The Government is once again being urged not to sell the State's share of Aer Lingus.

It comes as Virgin Atlantic is due to raise issues with the European Commission, over the possible sale of Aer Lingus to the International Airlines Group.

Virgin Atlantic's worries centre on competition and connectivity of air travel to and from Ireland.

Meanwhile the Transport Minister says Donald Trump is entitled to his opinion regarding the potential selling off of Aer Lingus to IAG.

The US billionaire has strongly warned the Taoiseach against selling the State's shareholding in Aer Lingus, claiming it would damage the country's tourism industry and links to foreign direct investment.

In a letter to the Taoiseach, Mr Trump, said Aer Lingus "should not be given away to the highest bidder".

He added that he doesn't think the potential sale is a good deal for Ireland.

Speaking to Radio Kerry, Paschal Donohoe says the Government has not made any decision regarding IAG's bid for Aer Lingus:

Fianna Fáil says points should be discussed in Leinster House.

The party's spokesperson on transport, Timmy Dooley, says it would be a bad idea if Aer Lingus to be entirely privately owned:

Originally posted at 12.41