Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister for coming into the House to take questions.

The cost of Anglo Irish Bank continues to escalate. The Minister originally articulated the view that that bank should be kept as a going concern and the expectation was that it was to be given €4 billion by way of recapitalisation. This figure has now increased to €22 billion and is rising. The chairman has stated the bank does not yet know what will be the final figure required. Is there a trip point when the Minister will cease to hold the view that keeping Anglo Irish Bank open is the best option? Will he provide the House with the detailed assessment of all the different options, including options which he has to date found unpalatable because some of the bond holders might suffer losses? Will he put those on the table and let people assess them? What is the implication of the European Union's decision to not accept the Anglo Irish Bank restructuring plan?

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