Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I am raising the issue of Bord na Móna employees and pensioners. A number of years ago, as part of the just transition programme, and in recognition that they received no wage increase for approximately 15 years, shares were issued with an option for employees and pensioners to either sell or retain them. Until this year those shares were receiving dividends. This year Bord na Móna unfortunately took the decision to part retain its dividends and said the dividends would be paid over the next five years. That is on the backdrop of last year being one of its most profitable years on record. Given the State's involvement and the Government's interest in Bord na Móna, I first ask if the Government was consulted about this decision to retain the dividends and pay them out over five years. Second, will the Minister with responsibility for Bord na Móna speak to the CEO to see if the dividends can be paid out in full this year rather than paying them out over five years?

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