John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Dr. Hunt is aware that we have discussed the issue of EBS tied agents at meetings of this committee. That matter has gone through the courts and continues to be raised with the committee in terms of the advance we are making to assist in finding a solution. In 2019, Mr. Justice Jordan stated in the High Court:

[I] would have thought that a competent mediator could bring sense to bear and mediate a solution to the dispute between the parties. If the parties are committed to doing business with integrity and in accordance with the regulatory requirements that exist, then what possible obstacle stands in the way of both sides starting on a new page even if some re-arrangements and compromises are required of both sides?

He continued:

Large banks and financial institutions, and smaller ones, wish the public to forgive the past and to move on with a positive attitude. They should lead by example. What the parties have enjoyed in business together ought not to be lost if it can be salvaged. The exercise in itself might serve to help restore in the public mind the trust and confidence and faith that they should have in banks and financial institutions and which is being slowly rebuilt with effort over and above any required to solve this ongoing dispute.

The judge further stated: "That may be a high minded and naive recommendation on my part but it is something I would urge on both sides in any event." I am inclined to agree with him. Arising from Mr. Justice Jordan's statement and given the time that has passed, what efforts has the bank made to understand the message the judge gave and to resolve the issue with the EBS tied agents?