Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is important to remind ourselves that we were all elected in 2011 on the issues of the economy, jobs, banking and reform of the political system. That was the mandate from the people: “Go in there, do your best and reform the whole system, in particular the Dáil.” It is also important to have real reform, not to rush decisions and to have Standing Orders that are fair, balanced, accountable and transparent. We must not play politics with any Standing Orders or inquiries. The people want the truth and the facts. They do not want political spin or point-scoring. The purpose of the inquiry is to access the truth and facts and learn lessons for the future of this country. If we do that we will make the Dáil relevant and will follow up by having good and effective reform. The shenanigans about the Committee of Public Accounts, PAC, yesterday and today show us that we need to be very vigilant on this issue. Silencing dissenting voices, such as that of my good friend and colleague, Deputy Shane Ross, and the whistleblowers, should never be an option in this debate.

I have a solution for the many views presented in this debate today. I would be in favour of an independent inquiry and having an independent financial expert, possibly somebody with a financial and banking background but also an international judge, to chair this inquiry. This person could perhaps come from abroad.

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