30/07/2013

Sinn Féin Condemn Govt Plan To Sell Bord Gáis

A government plan to sell Bord Gáis Energy has been condemned by Sinn Féin minister for communications, energy and natural resources.

Following the publication of legislation, Deputy Michael Colreavy said: "The sale of Bord Gáis Energy is a very disappointing move by the government which is following the austerity agenda by the Troika.

"It is worrying to see the privatisation of a state energy company at a time when Ireland is attempting to become more self-sufficient in energy production, especially in the area of renewable energy.

"The entire gas network could be at risk if the current trend of privatisation continues. This would be sure to hamper growth.

"Ireland requires investment in the energy market, rather than the government offloading it to the private sector.

"Bord Gáis is a profitable company and the sale of Bord Gáis Energy is a move which lacks clear foresight from the government.

"It is disappointing to see a Labour minister lead the sell-off of this state company, especially when Labour members voted to reject the sale of any state asset at the last party conference.

"I would encourage Minister Rabbitte to listen to the voice of his own party members and stop the sell-off of Bord Gáis Energy."

(MH/CD)

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