Mr. Patrick Dorgan:

I did not understand that the Chairman was seeking an opening statement from us a few minutes ago. The Law Society is glad for the continuing interest that has been shown by the committee in e-conveyancing.

I am joined today by my colleague, Dr. Gabriel Brennan. Most of the members here heard on the last occasion about what we see as the many benefits of e-conveyancing for the consumer and all other players in this game. I do not propose to go through the opening statement we made on the last occasion. All of those materials are available to the committee.

The committee may recall that on the last occasion the Law Society felt that notwithstanding our engagement with all the major players, including Táilte Éireann and the banks over many years, and notwithstanding that significant progress had been made at all levels, we had reached a point with the banks where there was an unwillingness to commit fully to this project. I think I said that to the committee. I am glad to say that in the interval between the last meeting and today there has been engagement between the Law Society and the banks at the highest level about this project and we are delighted to hear Mr. Brett’s comments today to the effect that the banks are fully committed to the project. We think a result has been achieved. We have had very good dialogue and communication with Mr. Brett and his organisation and we look for the ongoing support and interest of this committee to make sure there are no further delays in having this implemented as quickly as possible.