What would I want with it (the money)?"

Galen pharmaceutical founder and chairman, Allen McClay, on his decision to establish a trust giving staff and management some £7.5 million worth of shares from the group's flotation and also giving £9 million to Queen's University, Belfast.

"You have to leave a little bit on the table for investors."

Denis O'Brien of Esat Telecom, commenting on the pricing of its share issue.

"The truth? The acquisition deal does not mean anything to me. Cuisine de France was the same the day before as the day after. What gives me the biggest buzz is to see boxes of bread made in the factory being sold in England."

Ronan McNamee after receiving £20 million for his stake in Cuisine de France.

"The great advantage for TCL is that we have access to a global network at cost. It also gives us a long-term protection and business presence here in Ireland."

Sean Melly of TCL on the takeover of his company by WorldCom.

"There is a lot of money being invested in the big names and they are becoming lifestyle names. Sadly, in this industry, if you do not have the muscle you will not succeed."

Paul Costelloe speaking after the £1.25 million takeover of his United Fashions business by British company Silk Industries.

"In order to sell any new product in a new territory, particularly middle of the road products, you have to tour. People have to see what you are about."

Mick Clerkin, the main shareholder in the Ritz Music Group, which plans to finance a Daniel O'Donnell US tour through a Nasdaq flotation.

"While the company may look small beside other listed companies, we are considering its future potential. And as it develops we are confident it will fit in quite nicely beside other companies listed in Dublin and London."

John O'Loughlin, managing director of bathroom suites manufacturer Qualceram, on its decision to seek a share listing in Dublin and London.