Marc MacSharry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for that reply. I am aware of his response to the State getting involved in financial services and he mentioned Irish Public Bodies, IPB Insurance. Is it possible, perhaps, when it comes to community initiatives such as sports clubs, not-for-profit organisations, local festivals and such events, playgrounds and so on, that IPB Insurance could be considered as the insurer for such a situation?

As to a State bank, the Minister of State mentioned that we had a high shareholding in so many financial institutions, and I agree with that assessment. We are probably, however, one of the most passive shareholders in the world. I would be taking a very strong view, given the strength and size of our shareholding, on the policies that are being pursued by that financial institution, which we are not prepared to take on. That is why I would like to see a State bank. I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle.

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