Dr. Ambrose McLoughlin:

I would draw the Chairman's and the Deputy's attention to the circular 112/13. I think the most important development is that we now have a policy that sets out unambiguously and removes any doubts in respect of these matters. The HSE has done very well with its intensive process following the audit and I want to assure the Deputy that, depending on the outcome of the investigation - we have to apply fair process here, each individual is entitled to a fair hearing and each of the cases will have to be dealt with on their merits - the HSE will make appropriate decisions and some of them may want to submit business cases to justify their position. There is a range of options open, including recoupment, as the Deputy correctly said. I am not ruling anything out or in. I want to assure the Deputy that as far as I, as Secretary General, am concerned, I will give it my very best effort to ensure these matters are dealt with very quickly and promptly.