The Deputy will be aware that I announced details of the Government plans to dispose of certain non-strategic State assets last week. The assets to be sold will be:
Bord Gáis Eireann's Energy business (but not including BGE's gas transmission or distribution systems or the two gas interconnectors, which will remain in State ownership); and
some of ESB's non-strategic power generation capacity;
Consideration will also be given to the sale of some assets of Coillte, but not its land-holdings, and the sale of the States remaining shareholding in Aer Lingus when market conditions are favourable and at an acceptable price to Government.
This programme of disposals is based on the guiding principles that there will be no fire sales; integral transmissions and distribution systems will be retained in State ownership and full value will be derived for the State. It represents a commitment by Government to disposals of up to €3bn, and in return the EU/ECB/IMF troika has agreed to the retention of one-third of the proceeds for much needed reinvestment in our economic recovery along the lines suggested in the Deputy's question.