Disclosure of Whitegate purchase contract
Collins sought publication of the refinery purchase contract on public-accountability grounds. The Minister refused to place commercial agreements in the Library, citing confidentiality and the precedent, while offering to answer questions about the share acquisition.
asked the Minister for Industry and Energy if he will deposit in the Library of the House of the Oireachtas a copy of the contract of purchase in respect of the Whitegate Oil Refinery.
Comment on this
I am prepared to answer any questions which are put down to me in regard to the share acquisition, subject to confidentiality agreements on technical matters into which my predecessor and our consultants entered, but I do not think it is appropriate that these commercial agreements should be made available in the Library.
Comment on this
Arising out of the Minister's reply, is he aware that the State is nationalising the oil refinery at Whitegate? Am I to understand from the Minister that neither the Members of this House nor the general public are entitled to see a contract nationalising a company in their name? Would the Minister not agree that, from the point of view of public accountability, it is very important that we are able to see such a contract, where nationalisation of a major company has been effected and which could have major repercussions on our economy?
Comment on this
I believe a certain balance is necessary between what needs to be available in the public interest and the precedent which would be set in making commercial agreements available for examination and consideration of different matters such as legal aspects, in which the public interest might not be the motivating factor.
Comment on this
I should like to distinguish between commercial confidentiality and national priorities such as this is.
Comment on this
Is the Minister aware that we have nationalised a very important facility and, because of that, a principle must be seen to be present? The Members of this House and the people are entitled to see that contract and to be satisfied with its terms.
Comment on this
If Deputy Collins cares to put down questions with regard to share acquisition those questions will be answered but the Minister does not consider it appropriate that details of commercial agreements should be made available in the Library.
