Máirín Quill
Question:63 Miss Quill asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider asset disposals, whether on a case-by-case or programme basis, as a means of part financing future budgets.
Written Answers. - Asset Disposals.
The Government has no programme for sales of shares in State companies. The Government's policy in this matter is that any change in the ownership structure of particular State companies will only take place if it is in the public interest and in the best interest of the company and its employees and following consultation with the social partners. The Government guarantees that the main strategic utilities and enterprises will remain in the ownership of the Irish people. There are no plans at present for the disposal of all or part of the State's shareholding in any State-owned companies. Other state assets, such as State property which is surplus to requirements, are disposed of on an ongoing basis.
The Government's policy in relation to the proceeds of sales of State assets is that they will be used to reduce borrowing and, thus, to help ease the burden of the national debt and of debt servicing costs.