It would be incorrect to suggest that the price increase application was made on the basis of trends within the European Community. Presumably, the application was made on the basis of securing and ensuring the financial stability of the company and meeting its capital requirements for energy generation in the future. That is the reason we have an application for a price increase, which has nothing to do with the European Community. I stated in my original reply that moves to change the existing structure of the industry should be taken within a clearly defined policy framework. We have already put down some markers on that, now that the EC Council of Energy Ministers is approaching the question of the liberalisation of the internal energy market. Therefore, I do not accept that the Government is not ensuring that our interests are represented at EC level so that we obtain the best possible deal.
The restructuring was to meet the trend emerging in Europe but it is also very much in the interests of the company. I am glad to note, as a result of work undertaken within the ESB, that it has the approval of staff. Indeed, it will be on the basis of consultation with staff that such reorganisation will be effected. A task force has been established, with one of the officials of my Department participating, to help to implement the necessary changes which the chairman, board, management and staff agree is in the best interests of the company; even from its own selfish point of view, it should be more competitive and seen to be more cost-transparent throughout its business operations.