John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Before asking a number of questions relating to the Comptroller and Auditor General's opening remarks this morning I join other members in complimenting the Minister, Mr. Moran and his staff on the progress made in the past 12 months. We have picked up intelligence and information, although it is not easy from a legal or banking point of view to understand all of what is happening at a quick pace, particularly when one's back is to the wall and one is trying to learn as markets are moving. The Department has made much progress.

The Comptroller and Auditor General mentioned the figures of general Government debt since 2007. The estimated debt was €192 billion for 2013. Will Mr. Moran comment on the figures to date for the indebtedness of the country and the amount of money to be repaid in order to service the debt over the next few years, taking into account the deal done so far on the debt and what a possible deal might mean for repayments?