As the public grapples with the intricacies of the floatation of Telecom Eireann, a decision on the next public flotation is looming.

Aer Rianta said it expected a decision in its future to be made next July, the same month in which Telecom is due to make its debut on the Irish Stock Exchange.

Given the recent rumblings from Government, which seem to point in favour of at least a partial flotation of Aer Rianta, it appears the public will be faced with a multitude of suitors for their limited investment resources after years of no such opportunities at all . . . only mounting tax bills to subsidise these State operations.