Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It is not correct to say that nothing is happening. The biggest investigation in the history of the State in regard to this area is being conducted under our laws and Constitution. That is being conducted by an independent prosecutor service based on evidence being collated by the Garda Síochána and by the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement. All Members of the House would like to see these matters brought to a conclusion as quickly as possible but it is not correct to say that the Government is in position to interfere in regard to the conduct of the investigation. That is not correct but we want to see this matter dealt with as quickly as possible.

As the Deputy will be aware, there are rules in regard to the Central Bank Acts and other Acts relating to banking legislation. A very thorough investigation is ongoing, as the Deputy will be aware. We all want to see it concluded. All the resources required to conduct that investigation are being provided and we would like to see a matter brought to the Director of Public Prosecutions as quickly as possible. I am aware counsel is working on behalf of that body and is liaising with the people concerned who are conducting the investigation. The Garda Commissioner said recently that he expected further progress in regard to it very shortly. We welcome that statement and would like to see it concluded as quickly as possible.

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