Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have no interest in sweeping this matter under the table or allowing it to disappear. What happened was wrong. The numbers of people who were affected by this and the suffering that was caused was unconscionable. That is my view on the matter. On the specific questions the Deputy has put to me, to date the issue of the rate of interest and the individuals and victims it will go back to has not been raised with me. Most of the dealings I have had on the matter have been about people not knowing where they stand in the process. Clearly the decision that is made on that matter is a matter for the regulator. It is a matter for the Central Bank because I engage with it on this matter regularly.

On the second question regarding accountability and individuals and organisations being seen to be held accountable for what happened, that is what I want to see happen. In order for me to allow that to happen, I have to be conscious of the fact the institution doing this work at the moment is the Central Bank which I have responsibility for. I do not want to say anything in this hearing that will undermine its ability to implement any sanctions which it judges are needed in the future. From my extensive engagement with the Central Bank on the issue, I am clear it will see this matter concluded and see it dealt with well.