Last ditch talks are continuing between government and unions to find a rescue package for stricken Italian national airline Alitalia. But, the airline, which is running out of money, says it will not be forced to cancel flights today or tomorrow.
 
 Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has pledged to do all he can to save the company, although strict EU competition laws prevent a government bail out. 
 
The one offer on the table is from Italian consortium CAI, which only wants Alitalia’s profitable parts. While the biggest union in the negotiations has accepted CAI’s proposal, others are yet to agree the thousands of job cuts being proposed.  
 
Fabio Berti, National Coordinator of Pilots Union said: ’‘We have said this proposal is absolutely unacceptable from several points of view, and especially from a business point of view. This proposal doesn’t plan a future for the company. 
 
 “I don’t know what will happen. ‘‘We are looking for some openings, but I don’t have much hope,” he said.
 
Alitalia is being run by administrators after seeking bankruptcy at the end of August. If no deal is agreed, the carrier faces possible liquidation.

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