Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

I thank all the Senators who asked questions. Senator van Turnhout's questions are matters that might be the subject of discussion under the expenditure review and in the first instance, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Howlin, is interchanged with the Department of Social Protection. I do not know of any intention he has to move adversely into that area. It is a matter I cannot deal with until budget day. I take the points she raised and I will communicate her views to the Minister and ensure he knows them.

Regarding Senator Keane's query about the Central Bank, I will ask my officials to supply that information to the Senator. The Central Bank has a new Governor and a new regulator has been appointed. They are operating very effectively and are doing good work.