Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)

I met the group several times. I met representatives of the wider Quinn Group in July and November last year. At the first meeting, the delegation outlined to me the details of a proposal that would involve the participation of Anglo Irish Bank and Quinn Group. The Quinn Group hoped it might be a viable alternative to the sale of the business by the administrators. In responding to the proposal I had to reiterate to them the independence of the Financial Regulator in carrying out its role. I indicated to it that the administrators were appointed by the courts and would be subject to reporting back to them, but they would always have to take into account what the Deputy outlined, as well as maintaining the maximum number of jobs.

I understand the result of the deliberations and sales process will be announced very shortly. As the administrators were appointed by the courts I or any member of Government cannot be involved in the process. However, we have been very concerned about the matter. The Deputy will be aware that I established an interagency group under the chairmanship of Mr. Dan Flinter who is the former CEO of Enterprise Ireland. He has been working with representatives of the company. The group has met on 13 occasions regarding this matter.

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