The Tánaiste is under pressure from Labour TDs to block the sale of Aer Lingus.

Party backbenchers are reported to be holding an emergency meeting today to discuss the €1.4 billion takeover offer from IAG.

A number of TDs have voiced concern about the proposed deal over fears that jobs could be put in jeopardy.

The Taoiseach yesterday told the Dáil no decision has been taken on International Airlines Group's takeover bid for Aer Lingus.

However, many Labour TDs are queuing up to oppose the offer fearing for the party's prospects on Dublin's northside where most of Aer Lingus's Irish workforce are based.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, Former Junior Minister Joe Costello warned the Government not to accept a "pig in the poke deal".

While, Senator Lorraine Higgins called for IAG chief Willie Walsh to step down as non-executive chairman of the NTMA saying she believes his advice on state assets represents a "conflict of interest".

Meanwhile, the Transport Minister has asked a review group to advise him about the €1.4 billion bid.