Mr. Nicholas Jermyn:

The remuneration we paid to three senior executives relates to work undertaken in the private sector. In this regard, we have always believed it is similar to any other public servant who has additional employment in the private sector, whether lecturing, self-employment or any other employment. The remuneration to these individuals was private and not a matter for public disclosure. That was the view we took. We had legal opinion from senior counsel and, in the case of four of the seven additional staff, they were being dealt with under the process entered into with the HSE when the topic arose. We firmly believed we could deal with them. With regard to the three executives referred to in the media, we felt it was compliant but we recognise the difference. We must work through this, as referred to in the chairman's address.