Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Tomorrow, at least 25% of the shares of AIB will be sold despite the expressed wish of the House that it should not happen. The new Taoiseach has promised to increase capital expenditure but has not indicated from where the money will come. We remain committed to using the proceeds of this sale simply to pay down debt. There has been no discussion in the House on the sale. We rely on the media to tell us what the share price will be. Originally it was to peak at €4.90 per share and now we understand after two alterations it is to be €4.30 peak per share, which is 40 cent less than originally expected. This lower valuation means the State is selling AIB at a discount, potentially leaving €500 million on the table. Will the Tánaiste confirm the Government will sell the AIB shares tomorrow and that it will sell them at a price that, in effect, is giving away the people's investment at less than what it is worth, simply to ensure a good market reaction and good headlines?

See this speech in context