With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 19 and 20 together.
The Irish National Petroleum Corporation will hold the entire share capital of the Irish Refining Company on behalf of the Government and will, through the latter company, and in consultation with me, make the necessary arrangements to ensure that the refinery continues to be operated effectively. It is expected that the refinery can resume operations in August.
As already announced, it is intended that operation of the Whitegate Refinery will be on a cost-recovery basis.
A sum of upwards of £10 million is being earmarked to get the refinery back into operation and the Deputy will have noted from the Minister for Finance's Budget Statement that provision has been made for this amount in the current year.
I intend, in the near future, to introduce legislation to provide a statutory basis for the capital structure, organisation and functions of the INPC. This legislation will also provide for the preparation and presentation of an annual report and accounts and any other matters relevant to public accountability. It is my intention, when presenting this legislation to the House, to make a full statement in regard to the Government's policy on the corporation, including in particular, its future role and functions.