Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The bilateral loan interest rate is linked to the IMF-EU rate, which is the focus of our attention. One rate has an impact on the other and being good, practical people, we focus on the main area of attention, namely, the element of the IMF-EU deal that Heads of Government devolved to Ministers for Finance to deal with. It has a consequence for bilateral interest rates.

The Government intends to work with the British Government on a range of issues. I will write to Deputy Adams on this matter shortly because it is not one to be dealt with in isolation or as a single issue. It is sensitive and highly personal and closure does not come until the facts and truth emerge. This is one of a long litany that needs to be dealt with. It is a case of determining what is the best thing to do.

In so far as the information on any files held by the British Government is concerned we will continue to work in that area, as has gone on for quite a number of years, to see if we can make progress. We have had our endorsements from the Oireachtas, including from all parts of this House, and I have said that to the British Prime Minister. That is not new and we will continue to work on that area.

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