Shane Ross (Independent)

-----as a result of the bankers lying about the way the loans had been serviced. If they are to be allowed get away with this, what is the point in having an inquiry, for example, up to the date of nationalisation of Anglo Irish Bank on 15 January 2009? If they continue to do exactly the same things, the inquiry will have no effect. I suggest, therefore, that we look more deeply into this issue and invite the Minister for Finance to come to the House to explain - not merely to the committee but to the Seanad - how far the inquiry will be allowed to look. Putting restrictions on it is protecting the Government and the bankers. That is being done deliberately. We must ensure that if there is an inquiry, it will teach us the lessons of the past in order that we can adapt them for the future. There was a press report today which I believe is accurate that Anglo Irish Bank would have its plan agreed to in principle. However, the bank is indulging in a kind of fantasy world, with the co-operation of the Government, in stating it will continue as a bank which lends to business. That will not happen. It will not rise from the ashes as a commercial entity.