Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment also asked it to examine the corporate services aspect of that operation since 2000. This process is in place and both the chairman and the chief executive officer were anxious that it would take place to get to the bottom of any issues that need to be addressed. No one is suggesting issues should not be examined or addressed. There is a question of process and ensuring we get to the bottom of it.

The Committee of Public Accounts is engaging in its own process. The Comptroller and Auditor General has been asked to follow up on a report he compiled on the organisation. That is as it should be. That is where matters stand and we need to get it resolved as quickly as possible. The Committee of Public Accounts is coming to a conclusion in respect of its investigation. That is what accountability is about.

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