Mr. Robert Watt:

People have a right to set out what issues they would like to discuss. The letter in question was addressed to me. I have sent detailed notes and a submission to the Chairman responding to each of the questions put and I will provide clarifications if required today. It is up to the official responsible, the accountable person, to lead and be here to represent the Department, as well as explaining our role in the matter. The official referred to by the Deputy does not have any function in respect of this matter as an officer of this Department. He has a role with respect to his membership of the board but not as an officer of the Department. I know that sort of Jesuitical distinction is not necessarily uppermost in people's minds in a debate but the reality is Mr. Quinn does not have a role with respect to his discharging of functions in the Department with this matter. Mr. Feeney and other colleagues have such a role, as I do. It was my judgment call and I am here. I spent four hours before the Committee of Public Accounts this morning answering questions. I have sent a detailed note to the committee and set out issues in a presentation. I am here to answer questions.