Michael Bell
Question:22 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Energy if he has any plans for the commercialisation of any of the services provided by agencies and companies under his control; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Diversification of State Agencies.
Michael Bell
Question:87 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Energy if he has any plans to encourage the agencies or companies under his control to diversify the products or services they offer in 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 87 together.
The semi-State agencies and companies under the aegis of my Department already operate in a commercial environment and it is accordingly expected of them that the services and products which they provide would conform with such a commercial mandate. As part of this commercial mandate the Government have stressed to the relevant boards and management the importance of pursuing all options including product development and diversification that would enhance commerciality and job creation prospects.
In recent years the legislation governing the ESB has been amended to cater specifically for such development and diversification and similar legislation is before the Oireachtas in relation to Bord na Móna. Legislation has been implemented allowing Bord Gáis Éireann to distribute gas in place of the old town gas utility companies. The Forestry Act, 1988, gives Coillte Teoranta considerable scope for diversification into all aspects of forestry and related activities including woodland industries either on its own or with others.