Michael McDowell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I empathise with Senator Norris about the missive he received from Allied Irish Banks. I had a visa card from Allied Irish Banks and it was funded from my bank account in Ulster Bank. I got a similar demand to explain how I had accumulated all of my wealth across my life for simply having a visa card that was funded by a standing order. This shows the ludicrous aspect of some of the regulations that come from Europe. I have no doubt that there could be a case made for special vigilance in respect of those people who wield particular power in European member states to keep an eye on egregious financial transactions relating to them. The form Senator Norris received was one which was applicable to opening a new account, asking where this money was coming from and questions of that kind. An asinine form was sent to him when, I presume, he has been banking with that bank for some time.