Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

As regards the tribunal issues, I have brought to his attention and have at all times kept the Member informed of any developments or issues that were being suggested here. I have conveyed that to the Member in writing. As regards any further contact, I can keep Deputies informed in addition to whatever consideration I wish to give to the letter before us at the moment.

It is our intention to bring forward that legislation as a matter of urgency during this session and get it enacted before we rise. That is the intention. It is important that the legislation would be brought forward in that way, so we are seeking to achieve that as a matter of urgency.

As regards the Financial Services Ombudsman stating that he should have the power to name institutions where it is in the public interest, that matter has been notified to the Minister for Finance. The Department of Finance has been in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General and the Ombudsman to see in what way that issue can be progressed. The Office of the Attorney General has confirmed that primary legislation would be required if the decision was to proceed along those lines. The matter will have to be considered in more detail in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General, following which the Minister can then consider the issues.

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