Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Government is in charge. When the Department of Finance obtained the information that this was the case, having been told incorrectly that there were no performance related bonuses, it took up the case and an extensive investigation is being carried out. I have made it clear that consequences will follow if wrongdoing is proved to have taken place. I and the Government would condemn any situation which did not comply with the directive the Government gave on these matters. Information was sought, misinformation was obtained, apologies were tendered by the chief executive of Bank of Ireland to the Minister and Department, an intensive investigation is taking place and as soon as that has been completed we will provide all the details to the House. That is a proper exercise in accountability.

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