Mr. Ger Deering:

I acknowledge the problem referenced by the Deputy. For example, I am aware of complaints to the effect that a record of a particular telephone call was not available in evidence. If evidence of a telephone call or correspondence is not available, the word of both people comes into play. The word of the bank official is worth no more than that of the complainant. In my view, it is incumbent on financial service providers to keep proper records and to retain them. I have been very strong in making that point to service providers. On occasion, where they have not provided information, I have reminded them of the office's powers to enter and search the institution for them.