Apart from the issue of the exchange of information, the Government was of the view that integration of prudential supervision and consumer protection did provide certain advantages. First, it provides a one-stop-shop for consumers, businesses and the financial services industry by having the regulation of insurance, banking and credit unions under one roof. Second, Ireland is a relatively small country in international financial terms, with a limited pool of expertise in the case of financial regulation. The building of a critical mass of skills relating to financial regulation in a single location is of major importance to the country. Third, it does place the interests of consumers at the heart of financial services regulation by giving the authority specific responsibilities in this regard. The Government is satisfied that the structure will work well but only time will tell.