Michael McNamara (Clare, Labour)
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Question 317: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of job losses that will result in the privatisation in the energy sector of Bord Gáis; if that number is greater or lesser than the number of jobs that should be created from the €1 billion investment in job creation to be funded from the proceeds of the said sale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12419/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The Government has decided that Bord Gáis Éireann's Energy business will be part of the assets disposal programme. The Government has also reiterated its commitment to retaining Bord Gáis Éireann's gas transmission and distribution systems as well as the two gas interconnectors in State ownership as national strategic infrastructure. I do not foresee job losses in BGÉ as an inevitable outcome of the planned divestment of the Energy business.

The proposed sales can deliver positive outcomes for Ireland's energy markets, for the State utilities and their employees, for consumers and for business. Bord Gáis Energy is a dynamic and successful company, which has delivered real benefits for consumers as it has invested and grown in power generation and energy supply. Sale of the business will support this vibrant company and its employees to continue to grow while enhancing competition in the energy market for the benefit of the economy and consumers.

The Government has agreed with the Troika that one-third of the asset disposal proceeds can be used for re-investment in our economy and the promotion of employment and economic recovery.