Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

The Deputy will understand that I do not propose to indicate to the market how much I expect to raise from the sale of the individual assets in the programme of State asset disposals that I announced. However, I assure the House that the sales will be transacted via an open, transparent and competitive process.

On foot of my announcement, work is progressing on plans for the disposals I have outlined. All of the relevant Departments will participate, overseen by my Department and with the assistance of NewERA entity created by this Government. The objective is to identify by the end of next month any remaining policy, regulatory, legislative or financial issues that may need to be addressed prior to individual disposals. Great care will be taken at all times to ensure any decisions are in the national interest and represent good value for the taxpayer. It is intended that any issues arising will be addressed by the end of this year to facilitate the commencement of sales next year.

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