29/07/2014

Govt U-Turn On Sale Of Midlands Power Stations

News that the government has reversed its decision to sell ESB power stations in the Midlands has been welcomed by Fianna Fáil.

In October last year the government announced plans to seel two peat-burning power stations in the Midlands despite a previous commitment that it would not.

Welcoming news of the U-turn, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment Barry Cowen said: "When the Government broke yet another election promise in relation to the sale of ESB power stations last October Fianna Fáil argued that this would be a foolish move, which was being done to make a quick profit on valuable state assets rather than having any long-term vision.

"The long-term and continuing benefits of the power plants to the community in Offaly was not taken into account and would have far outweighed the short –term benefit of the sale.  I’m glad the Government has seen the error of its ways, there were genuine fears for the 80 staff at the plants, while the future of their pension entitlements were placed in doubt.

"The strategic importance of these sites was never taken into consideration and I would urge caution in the future regarding the fire sale of state assets without due consideration to the workers affected, their families and the local communities."

(MH/CD)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

08 November 2019
ESB Workers 'Betrayed'- SF
Sinn Fein has accused the Government and ESB of betraying staff after news two power stations in the Midlands will close. The Electricity Supply Board confirmed today that two peat-fired electricity generation plants will cease operating at the end of 2020.
07 April 2016
Quinn Slams FF And FG For Not Addressing Housing And Policing Issues
Sinn Féin Cllr Malachy Quinn has slammed Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael for not addressing the housing and policing crisis' in the midst of their "political power play". The Dáil met yesterday, 06 April for the third time since the general election in a bid to establish a new Taoiseach.
08 May 2014
Power Lines And Pylons Review 'Inadequate' - FF
The Terms of Reference of the Independent review of overhead power lines and pylons has been described as inadequate by Fianna Fáil.
28 July 2014
ESB No Longer Selling Power Stations
The Electricity Supply Board (ESB) has said it is no longer selling two peat-fired power stations in the midlands. In October 2012, the Irish Government requested ESB develop plans for the sale of some non-strategic generation capacity, with the objective of delivering special dividends to the Government of €400m by the end of 2014.
23 October 2013
ESB To Sell Peat Burning Power Stations
Two ESB power stations in Offaly and Longford are to be sold. Workers at the stations were told of the decision this morning at meetings held at West Offaly Power at Shannonbridge and Lough Ree Power in Lanesboro, Co Longford. It is understood that the sales are expected to be completed within the next twelve months.