A Clare Fine Gael Senator has said he will resign the party whip if the Government sells its shareholding in Aer Lingus to IAG.

Senator Tony Mulcahy was speaking following today's appearance by IAG Chief Executive Willie Walsh at the Oireachtas Transport Committee.

Mr Mulcahy says while Mr Walsh confirmed that IAG is in a position to guarantee Shannon Airport's Heathrow slots for a period of 5 years; he couldn't guarantee the future retention of transatlantic services to and from the Co. Clare airport.

"While Mr. Walsh confirmed to me that IAG is in a position to guarantee Shannon Airport's Heathrow slots for a period of 5 years but that he could not guarantee the future retention of transatlantic services to and from the County Clare airport," said Mr Mulcahy.

"I cannot support any proposed sale of Aer Lingus to IAG as the risks are far too great for Shannon Airport, the regional economy, and the people of Clare and the West of Ireland. Should the Government sell its shares to IAG I will resign the party whip and Fine Gael will no longer be able to rely on my vote," he added.