Dara Murphy (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 53: To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, with respect to sale of State assets, the process being taken to establish potential buyers; if a database is being established to identify the bona fides and access to capital of firms or individuals; if the State is endeavouring to get the maximum value of these assets in view of the current market conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14779/12]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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As I have already told the House on a number of occasions, the sale of State assets under the Governments programme announced last month will be transacted via an open, transparent and competitive process, in order to ensure that the State achieves value for any assets being sold. In that context, the credentials of any potential purchasers will, of course, be established and verified in the course of any competitive tendering process.

There remains a considerable amount of preparatory work to be completed over the remainder of 2012, before the Government will be in a position to initiate a sales transaction. I have already indicated that the Government would not envisage transactions commencing until 2013. However, in the meantime, we have already seen considerable interest being expressed in our asset disposal programme from a wide range of potential investors. I can again assure the Deputy that great care will be taken at all times to ensure any disposals are in the national interest and represent value for the Exchequer.