James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I am glad to hear the Taoiseach talking about value for money and we all support him in that. During the events of last week, however, this House discussed the financial crisis facing the country. The process agreed to by virtually all sides of the House was accompanied by serious concern expressed about the remuneration packages and bonuses of certain CEOs of the banks. It was, therefore, with astonishment and disbelief that we heard a story break, within 12 hours, of a €1.4 million bonus given to the top ranks of the Health Service Executive who preside over our health services——

See this speech in context