Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour) | Oireachtas source

If it is Professor Honohan's view that it would be to the benefit of Bank of Ireland not to use up the €2.4 billion and of AIB not to use up the €3.3 billion, then I would completely concur with him. I deal with this matter on a daily basis on behalf of my friends, my family and my constituents. In that context, it is of the utmost importance that Professor Honohan, as Governor of the Central Bank, ensures the banks draw down every cent of the amounts identified. I am of the view that this must happen because the nature of the fiduciary duties of the shareholders in and directors of the banks - particularly Bank of Ireland and AIB - means that their loyalties lie not with the people of Ireland but with those institutions. That is good company practice. From what I can establish, Bank of Ireland is intent on using as little of the €2.4 billion as possible. If that is the intention, then the bank's share price will soar, dividends will increase and those who invested in it after we entered Government will enjoy handsome rewards on the back of what were unquestionably negligent lending policies in the first instance.

They have been allowed to get away with the mess they have created and they are not being forced to take a hit. Does Professor Honohan have the ability to force them to take the quantum identified by BlackRock?