Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

The matter I raise was discussed in the House yesterday. Following the comments made by Senators Fitzgerald and O'Toole, it is more important than ever that the Minister for Finance clarify beyond doubt his position on all outstanding banking questions. I understand a salary limit was imposed on the banks as part of the banking guarantee scheme passed into law in the Houses. Is the limit being breached in the case of the insider appointed in the other major Irish bank?

The State owns 25% of Allied Irish Banks and Bank of Ireland and is likely to own significantly more by the time recapitalisation is complete. As Senators noted yesterday, the Minister's authority is an extremely important aspect of interaction between the State and banks as we rebuild confidence in the banking system. Without such confidence, the economy will not function again properly.

Questions about corporate governance arise from the apparent agreement on a person assuming a dual role in AIB. One newspaper suggested this morning that this a phoney war. That such a suggestion has been made on such a serious subject brings the matter into disrepute. It is crazy and the position must be clarified beyond doubt. The Minister must, if necessary, have more public interest directors on the boards of the banks. He must speak about the rationalisation and restructuring programme on which he has been silent recently. I support calls for a debate on this matter. Perhaps the Cathaoirleach will accede to our request and arrange for a debate to be held today.

On another matter, the Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009 is languishing on the Order Paper. It is a long time since the Second Stage debate was held. When will Committee Stage be taken?