Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I refer to Question No. 82. I asked how the Minister intends to proceed with regard to the sale of State assets. Has he an open mind with regard to the public placing of shares, the placement of shares with certain financial institutions, an invitation to expressions of interest and the sale of assets to the known businesses in the trade? Has he asked the NTMA to draw up a list of power companies who will be invited to bid? I understand a number of sharks are out there - the term used by Bord Gáis Energy - who want to take over that business.

I ask the Minister to explain the process for the sale of the assets. I do not mean to say I agree with a selling process but I wish to hear the Minister's intentions as to the process he intends to follow.

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