Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We had the principal debate on whether to sell the energy business of Bord Gáis on Second Stage. I thank those Members of the House who contributed to the processing of the Bill which clears the way for the sale of the energy business. Contrary to the commentary people may have read in the public press, the intention is to proceed with the sale. By this I do not mean proceeding with the sale at any price. It is the intention to honour our commitment that the energy business of Bord Gáis be disposed of. I believe the ultimate outcome will be a good one for the Exchequer and the country in terms of the issues raised about competition, a better deal for consumers and a significant additional competitor in the marketplace. I thank the House for enacting the legislation expeditiously.