Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 307: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if any analysis has been done in regard to the available Industrial Development Authority lands in Kildare with the overview of long-term leasing or selling of the lands either to local authorities or the private sector for the provision of incubation units for small and medium based industries; and whether the IDA still seeks to sell these lands at present day prices given that in some instances the lands were purchased in 1973 and have not been used for any productive purposes since; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35299/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by IDA that, as far back as 2003, the IDA Board approved the sale of all the Agency's lands in Kildare to Kildare County Council. However, due to a failure in negotiations, this transaction was not finalised at that time. IDA again approached the Council about the matter, but the Council has confirmed that it now has no interest in acquiring the properties.

IDA now proposes to place the properties on the open market on a freehold basis over the coming 12 – 18 month period. In this connection, I should point out that in keeping with the proper handling of State assets and finance IDA is required to ensure that all property transactions, whether with industry or other parties, are on the basis of current market valuation. Meanwhile, the Agency is always available to discuss any proposals regarding availability or suitability of individual buildings/properties with Local Authorities, Enterprise Boards the private sector or Community Groups. I will be happy to consider any IDA request for the necessary Ministerial consent should it propose to sell any of its holdings to non industrial undertakings.