Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Leader's indication that he will allow time for tributes to the late Deputy Brian Lenihan who, as Minister, was always very attentive to his duty in this House and treated everybody with great kindness and courtesy.

It is important to note the categorical assurance from the chairman of the National Asset Management Agency, Mr. Frank Daly, at the meeting of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly in Cork this morning that the agency has not to date and does not intend in future to sell back assets at favourable rates to the defaulting debtors from whom they were purchased. Unfortunately, a Member of this House has made allegations to the contrary, hinting, on more than one occasion, that sweetheart deals have been done involving NAMA and some of these people. He made these allegations in the House under parliamentary privilege.

I would have expected more from him as a respected colleague. He has made this claim without proof or back-up, and his allegations are unfounded. If he has back-up or proof, let him provide it. Alternatively, let him make the allegations outside this House and we will see what happens. This concerns the Cathaoirleach as much as the Leader because it would make a very bad headline for any us to tolerate such an abuse of privilege. I very much welcome the categorical assurance today from the chairman of NAMA. Perhaps this matter can be pursued at a meeting of the Committee on Procedure and Privileges.