Mr. Brian Cotter:

I think in the substance of the matter we do not have a position on it. I could not offer one because our members are not discussing it. I could imagine that one always needs to be careful in the totality of the image of the country. We certainly want to ensure there is no doubt - and I think Senator Norris expressed this - that Ireland wants to be a friendly place for business and investment. However, we need to be cautious about what we say to media and be aware of how they use it. We have to be aware of that at all times in our dealings with the media and how it is transferred.

I am not aware of any discussions in the US business community that they are particularly concerned that this matter is being discussed or that it would be a factor in investment.