Darragh O'Brien (Dublin Fingal East, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank my colleagues for the questions. There is a process to be followed here. The original engagement with the Department was in 2024, as I read into the record. Bord na Móna submitted papers to the CCPC on 7 February, just short of two weeks ago. I have not received any request for ministerial consent, which would be required. I read in detail the correspondence dated 10 February that I received from SIPTU's divisional organiser. I acknowledged that and responded to that letter, outlining the process. I have not met the chair of the board or the chief executive yet. I intend to do so on a number of matters, which is why I read into the record where the company has gone and the success it has had in that transition it has made, which is good and which I fully support. I would take very seriously any decision on a potential disposal of a part of a company like this. I would assess the information I have to hand. I do intend to meet the organisation. I have corresponded on this already with the unions and SIPTU specifically, and I will continue that engagement. I have yet to form a view on this because I do not have all the information. I take on board what Deputies here have said. I do not see it as a fait accompli either.

The protection of current employee terms and conditions is very important, not just in a transitional phase but potentially into the future. I am fully aware that change can be a cause of concern for people when it comes to jobs and livelihoods. I will be engaging with the company but there is a process to be followed. I cannot intervene at this stage. The strategic review was done and engagement with the staff is happening. I would encourage that to be continued and to be done in a very detailed way to take on board any concerns. I have also outlined to the House the number of new companies and new jobs that have come from the transition to green skills Bord na Móna has made, which is something we support. I will keep Deputies advised of the progress with this. I intend to meet the board in the next week or so. I am aware of the concerns of the workers that have been outlined to me in the correspondence with SIPTU, which I have responded to.

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