Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader arrange a full debate after the recess on the banking industry? We have a lot of expertise in this House — one Member is an LIB, an expert in banking and there are other experts in the House also. The House has much expertise in banking and in other fields and it could be put to good use by having a good debate.

I particularly want a debate on variable and fixed interest rates. Why, if we own a quarter of the AIB and Bank of Ireland and we own Anglo Irish Bank can we not call on the directors in those banks to ensure an easy changeover from a fixed interest rate to a variable interest rate? Even if there is some charge involved, people should be given an option to change from a fixed interest rate to a variable one. The Financial Regulator should examine fully Start Mortgages, which is charging 7.3% in fixed interest thereby putting enormous pressure on people in making repayments.

I compliment Mr. Peter Sutherland on his inspirational interview on "Morning Ireland" this morning. It should be circulated around the world today by the Government Information Service. It was one of the finest interviews on this country that I have heard. I hope the Members on the opposite side will commend Mr. Sutherland and acknowledge he is fair, reasonable and balanced. This morning he made the best public relations statement ever made by anyone from here or abroad and he deserves our credit. He should be employed by the Government Information Service to work to promote Ireland Inc. All our friends abroad should be utilised to support this country. If we had a system of honours, Mr. Peter Sutherland would be the first man I would propose today for an honour.