Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

I know it is very difficult but in a national crisis there is an obligation, even on Sinn Féin, to work towards the recovery of this country, as this Government is doing. Despite their best efforts, we are going to succeed. I welcome this opportunity to explain the rationale for the Government's decision announced last week to proceed with a programme of State asset disposals involving BGE Energy, some of ESB's non-strategic power generation capacity, some assets of Coillte and the State's remaining shareholding in Aer Lingus. Last week's announcement was the culmination of a long process which began before the current Government took office and must be seen against that background and considered in that context.

In their comments following last week's announcement - again tonight we heard the same trite comments - it is obvious Sinn Féin Members adhere to the flat-earth policy in respect of State assets.

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