Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will be brief. I thank the Minister for his work in dealing with a very difficult area. I have worked in the legal profession. The difference between us and economists is that there are times when immediate decisions are required rather than allowing other people to dictate how we should manage our affairs. This is one decision which we have to take here and now. I refer to section 3(b) of the Bill which provides for the winding up of the IBRC in an orderly and efficient manner in the public interest. The Minister and the Government are working in the public interest in bringing forward this legislation.

I hope the Minister does not mind me raising one issue. I refer to section 14 of the Bill and the appointment of valuers. I have a concern about this provision. The person appointed will be responsible to the special liquidator but the Bill does not state that the person is answerable to the Minister. It is a case of transparency in the valuation of properties.

We are talking about substantial properties and assets in this case. Perhaps the Minister would deal with the transparency we must have on this issue, because there is public concern that there is a lack of transparency on some issues and about some of the decisions that have been taken, for example, with regard to NAMA. While I am not questioning any of the decisions, there is a need for further clarification. That is just one aspect of the Bill. There are other aspects I would like to discuss but I do not have the time. However, I ask the Minister to provide clarification on that to ensure there is full accountability to the Minister and the Government and accountability on the part of the Government to the Oireachtas.