Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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319. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of megawatts of energy that has been created due to the Bord na Móna - Coillte merger. [29271/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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In June 2014, the Government decided to streamline and refocus the commercial operations of Bord na Móna and Coillte, primarily in the bioenergy and wind energy sectors. The decision requires Bord na Móna and Coillte to proceed with a partial merger in four key areas: wind; biomass; tourism and recreation; and shared services. As part of the implementation of the Government decision, Bord na Mona and Coillte are in ongoing discussions regarding establishing a wind business and future development of the wind assets of both companies on a joint basis over time. At the present time both companies are discussing participation by Bord Na Mona in a wind farm project currently in the course of development by Coillte consisting of 58 MW. This is a complex transaction and it is expected that the discussions will conclude over the next few months.

Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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320. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the financial impact to the State from the Bord na Móna - Coillte merger. [29272/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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In June 2014, the Government decided to streamline and refocus the commercial operations of Bord na Móna and Coillte, primarily in the bioenergy and wind energy sectors. The decision requires Bord na Móna and Coillte to proceed with a partial merger, by way of a joint venture, in four key areas: wind; biomass; tourism and recreation; and shared services. As the implementation of the Government decision is a matter for both companies, associated costs do not arise for the parent Departments or, consequently, the State. It was envisaged that harnessing the strengths of both companies would result in a financial benefit to the companies and their respective shareholders. While the implementation of the decision is being progressed by both companies, overseen by a Steering Group of senior officials from my Department, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and NewERA, it is too early in the process to determine the full extent of such financial benefits. However based on the information provided to date it is expected that the partial merger will deliver a positive financial outcome for the State on its completion.