@racedo cop on, how would I have any information on potential investors? The bean counters in Goodbodys don't even have that info.
If you read any analysis on Aer Lingus at all, it's been well publicised that the pension deficit is holding back investors. Only last year Willie Walsh ruled out any IAG takeover of Aer Lingus, specifically citing the pension deficit as the main reason. Christoph Mueller himself has highlighted the issue a number of times over the last year at conferences and in several interviews.
Coming to a settlement offers shareholders no form of ROI, but it eliminates a major risk factor and clears the way for investors who would've otherwise looked elsewhere. It is also in the interests of Irish taxpayers that the issue be resolved as soon as possible, as it will remove any barrier to a potential sale of the state's 25% stake in the company and avoid the state having to sell their stake for less than its worth.