AER LINGUS has confirmed it is to shed at least 2,500 jobs as
it battles to cut loses of IR£2 million a day following the September 11 terrorist
attacks.
The airline has implemented a number of wide ranging
measures, including the cancellation of suppliers’ contracts and a 25% cut in
its schedules.
Group chief executive Larry Stanley said: “We are facing the
most serious threat to our survival that we have ever encountered. We are part
of an industry in crisis.
“There is no point pretending otherwise. It is vital that we
all know exactly know how serious our situation is.
“I know that media speculation on the number of jobs which
will have to go has been adding to everyone’s concerns, but I can confirm that
we have to target reductions in the permanent work force of the order of 2,500
jobs.”