Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

To be fair, the figure of €3 billion is the overall target set. Let us consider the seven issues discussed.

The restrictions or conditions - or lack thereof - possibly determine the position with regard to the high and the low prices. A clear unrestricted auction of the assets for an 80 year period, without obligations, would probably realise a higher up-front price. We must work back from there to a point where, if the Government's targets are to be achieved, an amount of between €600 million and €700 million must be realised. At the same time, adequate conditions and controls along the lines of those indicated in the seven points highlighted by our guests must be put in place in order that what occurs will be in the best interests of the State. When he tabled parliamentary questions on this matter last week, Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív was informed that the amount it was hoped to realise was between €600 million and €700 million.