Mr. Nicholas Jermyn:

It is important to recognise that the three individuals involved are fully aware of the situation. We have agreed to co-operate fully with the board in the best interests of the public. It is a complex issue. It has been traumatic for the staff and for everyone to have this public debate. We would have much preferred not to. However, it is right to get it out in the open and deal with these issues. It is important that we say this: we were paid for work we were asked to do, and it was benchmarked. We recognise the difficulties now with the situation and we are going to co-operate fully with our board in the best interests. However there are legal and complex issues relating to disentangling situations. I say sincerely - I know I can speak for my colleagues as well - that we really want to bring this to a closure, which will allow the great organisation that is St. Vincent's Healthcare Group to continue in such a way that it can look after patients and such that people can have confidence, including committee members who represent their constituents. I hope sincerely that we will reach agreement. However, Deputy McDonald will understand that there are issues.