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

For the information of members, arising from the media reports and the concerns expressed by all sides about NAMA and not coming down on any side but dealing with the issue of leaks to newspapers and media commentary, it is hugely important that NAMA clear up the matter. We should hear from it. In that regard, I contacted it and asked its representatives what they were going to do. It was that serious and important that we ask them; otherwise we will go through the Christmas and new year period with significant information being given to the media by whatever party. NAMA's representatives have indicated that they will be putting out statements in response to some of the material already in the public domain. They will also make statements to counter other statements made. As a result, NAMA's representatives are anxious and willing to come before the committee having heard the concerns expressed by me and others. They have suggested that even if members want to invite them today or tomorrow, they are willing and anxious to come. They will be issuing statements on issues and out of courtesy said to me: "All of these statements are going to be out there and we have no opportunity to put them before anybody formally." The question for members of the committee is, having been told this, what exactly do they wish to do. What is their choice? Do they wish to bring in NAMA's representatives? I suggest we bring them in today.