Michael Kitt (Fianna Fail)

I support the comments made about financial institutions. When the House discussed the naming of people who had offshore accounts, I made the point that the banking fraternity had not been mentioned in any newspaper reports. It is disappointing and disturbing to hear that members of that fraternity were involved in illegal activity. I hope we can have a debate on this matter because issues have also arisen in respect of foreign exchange transactions.

Senator Brian Hayes referred to people moving their accounts. I wish that life was that simple. In many smaller towns, people do not have that option. The opposite is, in fact, the case because banks are withdrawing their services and closing branches in many towns throughout the country. There is a serious election issue in Carraroe at present because people do not have access to a banking service. We should call on the banks to ensure the policy of closing branches does not continue. While, as Senator Brian Hayes stated, the credit unions have a role in this area, An Post also has a role to play in respect of banking. Banks are withdrawing from our smaller towns and I do not want to see that process continuing. We should have a debate on the issue as soon as possible.