As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has announced its intention to proceed with the disposal of its residual shareholding of 30.4 per cent in Greencore plc. A period of three weeks, ending today, was allowed for interested parties to submit proposals to my Department. All proposals received will be examined on the basis of criteria which will include price, and compatibility with the long term strategic development of Greencore as a major Irish food company, which would consolidate and expand employment in the Irish economy.
A decision on the Government's shareholding in the company will be taken when all relevant factors have been fully considered.