asked the Minister for Finance if he can state when the necessary legislation defining the position of Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann and providing for the transfer of their holdings in food processing to Erin Foods Limited will be introduced in Dáil Éireann.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Erin Foods Limited.
12.
I am not in a position to say when the legislation relating to the food processing project of Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann Teoranta and Erin Foods, Limited, will be introduced. The necessary discussions in connection with its preparation are at present taking place with the two companies, and the intention is to introduce the legislation at the earliest possible date.
Is the Minister aware of the urgency of this matter, in view of the fact that guarantees given by the Minister for Finance in the House in connection with the financing of projects by Comhlucht Siúicre Éireann are now made subject to certain conditions which we are informed are illegal? Will he take steps to see that whatever is to be done in this matter will be done? We cannot move until this legislation is passed.
The Minister for Finance is taking action as rapidly as possible. In the meantime, the Deputy knows that the capital structure and the general position of Erin Foods are assured.
I am not concerned with the structural position of Erin Foods. I am concerned with the expansion of an industry in which I am keenly interested and the fact that that expansion is being delayed.
Mismanagement by the Government.