Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I am pleased the House prompted action on Anglo Irish Bank because Members called for the deployment of the Garda fraud squad. Given the investigation is under way, names cannot be released because that could prejudice the case that will come before the courts. When the issue was discussed last week, Mr. Appleby and the fraud squad had not taken action in this regard. It appeared no action would be taken against the bank but it has happened and, hopefully, that will lead to criminal proceedings.

Senator Fitzgerald mentioned an article published today by Sam Smyth and it is interesting that a person who was seemingly involved has issued a statement saying he was misled in this regard. Let him put his case to the courts and defend his position.

I welcome the appointment of the new board of the RTE Authority and, in particular, the appointment of Tom Savage as chairman. This was an excellent choice by the Government and he will bring great leadership to RTE. I wish him well in his appointment.