Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

Many comments have been made regarding the position of our banks. I congratulate the Minister for Finance, Deputy Brian Lenihan, on all he has done to correct our banking system and the manner in which he has diplomatically and correctly gone about assisting in changes in the management structures, given the hamstrung position in which he finds himself. It is important that we have correction of our financial institutions, something which has been taking place. There have been smooth transitions over recent months. It is crucial that the best people are appointed to the appropriate positions and that the best mix of management teams are in position to deal with the current challenges. On the situation pertaining in AIB, about which there has been much comment, we have not yet seen the position fully played out and will see appropriate action being taken by the Government.

I ask the Leader to contact the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy John Gormley, or, if necessary, the local authorities. I understand various local authorities have increased their commercial rates, a decision which is made by the elected members of the various councils. However, business personnel are experiencing genuine difficulties in paying increased commercial rates. Some mechanism will have to be found to accommodate the current difficulties. I ask the Leader to contact the appropriate authority and to report back to the House thereafter.