Nora Owen
Question:87 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the plans, she has for Irish Refining PLC; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19020/00]
Written Answers. - Irish Refining PLC.
As part of a Government decision of 23 February 1999 to approve an investment programme to upgrade the Whitegate refinery, the Irish National Petroleum Corporation, INPC, the parent body of Irish Refining PLC, has requested to actively pursue and report on the scope for other commercial opportunities to underpin the refining operation, including possible joint ventures or a strategic partnership in activities ancillary to, or having a synergy with, the refining business.
In response to this request, INPC has been conducting a search process to identify business development opportunities, including the possible sale of equity in the company. It has recently received a number of formal proposals from interested parties, which it is currently evaluating. I am prepared to consider all suitable development opportunities for the company.