A social dividend from Aer Lingus deal?

THE Government’s decision last week to sell its stake in Aer Lingus paves the way for a bumper payday for the airline’s shareholders if IAG’s

?¬1.36 billion deal gets over the finish line.

The State itself will enjoy a

?¬335m windfall – a considerable sum in post-recession Ireland where we are constantly reminded by politicians that resources are still scarce.

After seeking assurances from IAG, Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe firmly believes that this is the best deal available for the country and the national carrier, which has come through some challenging times.

It all sounds good. Now all we have to worry about is what we’re going to do with all that dosh about to flow into the State’s coffers.

The Minister has indicated that the money will go into a new

“connectivity fund

?.

But here’s a mad thought: wouldn’t it be great if a sizable portion of the

?¬335m could be ringfenced for voluntary or charitable organisations that are struggling to provide services?

Money could be allocated, for instance, for the ISPCC’s invaluable Childline service. Barnardos could also be worthy recipients of a fund set aside from the Aer Lingus cash.

After all, hasn’t the Government committed to ending the scandal of child poverty in Ireland?

On RTÃ?’s

‘Claire Byrne Live’ programme last week, a member of the audience spoke movingly about the funding crisis for Alzheimer care in this country.

The lack of State support for families affected by this cruel condition, particularly carers, is one of the greatest injustices in modern Ireland.

Extra funding for respite care is just one area that could benefit from the IAG deal.

The list of groups that could enjoy an Aer Lingus social dividend is endless, from those working with the homeless to suicide prevention and disability organisations.

Think about what the money could do for the Irish Cancer Society or Irish Hospice Foundation, to name but two deserving bodies.

Of course, the windfall could go towards paying off some of the country’s debts or give the Government a bit more leeway in reducing the tax burden for middle earners in future budgets.

But wouldn’t it be preferable to see the money spent where it’s most needed?