Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

Every evaluation must ensure that the best interests of policy holders are met, that competition within the industry is secured, that the existing jobs in Cavan, Enniskillen, Blanchardstown, Navan and elsewhere are protected and the best prospect for the return of €2.8 billion owed by Seán Quinn to Anglo Irish Bank, which is now in State ownership, and the taxpayer. Would the Minister not believe that the extended efforts between Anglo Irish Bank and Quinn Insurance in putting together proposals for the consideration of the administrators would have offered the best prospect of realising each of those goals?

Does the Minister have any indication as to why the long and protracted preparatory period did not lead to the final presentation of the so-called Quinn and Anglo Irish Bank proposal to the administrators within the timeframe set? How is it that Anglo Irish Bank, over a very short period of time, appeared to be saddled to another proposition with external interests which can guarantee none of the aforementioned goals?

What has the Minister's Department been doing, including providing any supports that are necessary, to give life to the Quinn and Anglo Irish Bank proposals? What has the it been doing in conjunction with the Department of Finance to assist the achievement of each of those objectives?

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