Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

I have answered this question on a number of occasions. The only decision the Government has made in respect of State assets has been to sell a minority shareholding in the ESB. On a previous occasion, I outlined the process by which that will be progressed. The Ministers for Public Expenditure and Reform and Communications, Energy and Natural Resources are dealing with that issue and it will be done in the best interests of the country. I expect that they will bring proposals to Government by the end of November. When we have those proposals the necessary legislative measures will be prepared. The whole approach to State assets, including the proceeds of any sale, is to ensure they are used in the best way to generate employment in the country.

Of course, the Deputy has no interest in improving the situation of people who are worried about their jobs and futures and their families' jobs and futures. The Deputy's sole interest is in organising protests. So, away with him. Let him organise whatever protest he wants. He is going to do it anyway.

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