Is the Minister satisfied with the general performance of semi-State companies since their formation and would he agree that it is only now in these recessionary times that people are trying to undermine the confidence of the people working in these sectors?

The overall performance of semi-State bodies and their contribution to the State since their establishment is of great importance to this State. As somebody who worked in one for a long time I am aware of the great value of these bodies and I am aware of the fact that because they work in the public interest it can beneficially affect the morale of the staff. But problems have arisen in recent years, partly because of the recession, partly because of the impact of Government policies which have sometimes misdirected them and partly because there have been some deficiencies in management and direction which need to be remedied. The steps that have been taken and are being taken will ensure that these bodies will be able to contribute as effectively as they have in the past to the general national welfare.