Economics 101 'hit the nail on the head' when he/she stated 'As a nationalised outfit protected from competition Aer Lingus really screwed the consumer. Now, look at the more recent trend in fares and yields: the consumer is "exploiting" Aer Lingus, and it hurts'.
Economics 101 is also 'spot on' regarding the statement 'SIPTU will be virtually forcing us to fly with Ryanair'.
Those of us who remember having to pay EI 300 punts to fly to LHR 20 years ago can not have too much sympathy. However it was the politicians of the day - C J Haughey & Co - who insisted Aer Lingus take on more employees than were needed. What a costly mess that unfolded over the years since.
BA had similar problems.
If Aer Lingus folds so be it. It will not be the end of the world!
Move on.