Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Broughan asked if I was talking directly to Eircom, Babcock & Brown or the industry. I am talking directly to everybody I can in the industry. I addressed the TIF conference today and took the opportunity to speak to a number of other providers. Every opportunity I get I speak to people on the issue.

I have had a number of meetings with Mr. Rex Comb and Mr. Pierre Danone, including a courtesy meeting and a more business-oriented meeting. I have not been talking to them directly with regard to the scheme. The Department is currently finalising a proposal and will probably consult with TIF as a representative body. It will then go to market in that regard.

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