Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Environment Barry Cowen TD has welcomed the Government U-Turn on the sale of ESB power stations in the Midlands.
Last October the Government announced plans to sell two peat-burning power stations in the Midlands despite an express commitment not to do so.
He commented: “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.”
