Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I would be grateful to hear them. The matter should be debated, given that the report was published three weeks ago.

It appears likely that AIB's initial estimate of the overcharging of its customers by €14 million was too low and the sum involved is much greater. This bank and others have been ripping off consumers for some time in terms of other charges. Does the Leader agree there is a need to review the regulatory structure that has been put in place and, in particular, to review the law in two areas? There is insufficient sanction for overcharging customers and the boardroom appears to be getting away absolutely scot free. There are no legal obligations on boards to ensure their actions comply with best practice and consumer law. The regulatory structure relating to financial institutions needs to be examined to ensure it is updated to take account of recent developments. Confidence in the banking sector has been sapped over the past few years and there is a need for a debate.

There is also a need for the Government to bring forward its proposals on whistleblowing. Last Friday on the Order of Business, the Leader correctly stated the whistleblowers Bill has been hanging around for the past four years. An opportunity is available to bring it forward in this House to ensure employees are protected when they come forward with information such as this because it would not come into the public domain unless employees took a brave stance. They should be protected in law. Will the Leader, following discussions with her colleagues in Government, bring forward the Bill in this House, given that we have time on our hands to deal with primary legislation?