That rumour has been around for several weeks, along with other rumours about massive job cuts, aircraft purchases, etc (yes, the rumours are often contradictory). Doubt current EI management would commit to anything until the airline is sold, and the new owners can decide. Arguably exiting OW now would lessen the airlines value and the directors could be liable for the monetary loss (of course one of the rumours is that existing directors/management are putting together a bid, in which case reducing the price may be in their private interest -- and the Irish government may well play along). Lots of money to be made in DUB these days.