Guys, you seem to forget that closing the company down will cost maybe even more money than keeping it alive. The rescue plan is financed with private funding (except for outstanding debts which will be covered by taxpayer money). If Alitalia folds, it's former employees will cost the italian government enormous amounts of money in unemployment benefits claims. Apart from national pride and the promise of Mr. Berlusconi to save the company this is the main reason why ministers are still talking to the various unions. They are trying to save their own *sses!