Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Bruton referred to dividends. The scheme allows the Minister to make rules regarding the payment of dividends to maintain capital ratios. No dividends will be paid by covered institutions before such rules are made. The extent of the discussion on dividends is something to which shareholders have regard when examining these institutions. Of course I will return to the House if there are any decisions made by me in this area, as these are matters of fundamental national importance.

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