Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Ceist:26 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Public Enterprise her views on the future ownership of Bord Gáis Éireann and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13168/01]
Written Answers - State Companies.
There is no current timetable to privatise Bord Gáis Éireann. Prudent policy dictates that we proceed on a step-by-step basis, the first step being completion of legislation establishing plc status for the board. In this connection, draft legislation is currently being prepared to establish Bord Gáis Éireann as a public limited company, to allow it greater freedom to operate in a liberalised market. This legislation is a necessary prerequisite to any change of ownership.
I will consider, in due course, the appropriate next step, taking into account the board's business plan and its submission on future structure and ownership, which are with my Department at the moment.