Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I welcome the publication of the Forfás report which highlights among other things the importance of the role played by State owned enterprises in the provision of critical national infrastructure, and as a significant sector in terms of employment. The report is a very useful input into the work of the Review Group on State Assets and Liabilities and to Government thinking generally about the role and contribution of State owned Enterprises.

My Department has responsibility for a range of commercial semi-State bodies. It is my view that these organisations play an important role in the Irish economy, by providing essential infrastructure and services to Irish enterprises and consumers. They also contribute significant dividends to the Exchequer and provide secure employment. The major utility companies in the energy sector (ESB, BGE, Bord na Móna and EirGrid) are key contributors to the achievement of Government energy policy objectives through long term investment commitments in renewable energy, by ensuring security of supply through investment in the networks as well as generation and supply and in maintaining the competitiveness of the Irish economy.

As the Deputy is aware, the Review Group on State Assets and Liabilities is expected to report to Government before the end of the year. I look forward to considering the report of the Group including against the background, as stated above, of the positive contribution, which the commercial State companies make to the economy and the implementation of policy.