Paschal Donohoe (Fine Gael)

I support the call by Senators Glynn and Callely for a debate on the behaviour of banks. It is important to have such a debate quickly. I note with interest the blame the Senators apportioned to the banks for their behaviour. Is it not the case that much of the responsibility and blame for the problem rests with the Government?

Last week, it emerged that €6 billion of €14 billion the Government will borrow is to be provided to the very banks Government Senators criticised. Is it not the case that if the negotiations on the use of taxpayers' money to recapitalise the banks had been done properly, the behaviour the Senators criticised would not be taking place? A Government Minister is travelling around the country holding public meetings with the very banks to which we have handed over €6 billion. What is needed are private meetings with the banks at which they should be told that having been provided with money, they must now change their game.