The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has apologised for suggesting in the Dail that former Aer Lingus chief executive Willie Walsh was attempting to "steal" the airline's assets.
Bertie Ahern
Mr Ahern said the remarks were made in the context of a "robust political exchange" and he accepted that the former management team had made a hugely significant contribution.
Labour leader Pat Rabbitte had claimed the comments had defamed Mr Walsh and were a serious breach of parliamentary privilege.
Speaking after Taoiseach's Questions in the Dail today, Mr Ahern confirmed he had written to Mr Walsh to express his regret on the issue.
"I have always felt strongly that the perception that the then management of Aer Lingus was proposing to organise the purchase of the company from the state was unwise and divisive.
"It was the impact of that perception to which I was referring in my comments last week. At the same time as I did so, I emphasised, as I have done several times, the quality and achievement of the then management team.
"The comments give the impression that I was impugning the integrity and motivation of the former management.
"While I did not refer to anyone by name, I accept that the clear implication was a reference to Willie Walsh and his two colleagues. Comments made in the context of robust political exchange in this Chamber can sometimes have unintended effects.
"I regret any implication that might have been taken from them regarding the position and contribution to Aer Lingus of the former management team, which was hugely significant. I have written to Willie Walsh personally conveying my regrets.
"As I stated to the media last week, using the words 'steal the assets' and 'shaft the staff' were inappropriate. I withdraw them from the record of the House."