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Dáil
‹ Order of Business

Time for banking inquiry debate

Summary

Deputy Mathews seeks a full debate on the banking inquiry’s terms of reference and accountability for bank and building-society boards, while objecting to limited time for independent Members. The Ceann Comhairle and Minister say the motion is expected next Wednesday and Members may request speaking time.

In regard to what had been on the Order of Business earlier this week, which was the debate on the banking inquiry, as brought forward by the Government, there are also on the Order Paper aspects in regard to the banking inquiry that were brought forward under Private Members' business, particularly the terms of reference and the need for all the members of the boards of banks and building societies during the period 2001 onwards to the crash, and even up to today, in order to bring forward to the public, in the same way as we have just debated for the justice system-----

Comment on this
Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

You have had your say, Deputy. We are straying away from the Order of Business.

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No, I am not. I am very much on it. As Deputy Broughan has just said, the time afforded to "other Members", as we are termed in this House, has actually melted like the snow. It is not good enough when there are Members in that category who have contributed very relevantly, professionally and factually to this area that they might be minimised or ignored, although I hope that will not happen.

This is extremely important for the people of this country because we must put in place transparent, accountable and responsible systems throughout the banking system today and board members must be accountable and responsible for the policies of the banks and building societies they direct. That did not happen for seven years and is measurable by reference to-----

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Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

The Deputy has had his fair share, which is totally out of order on the Order of Business. When is the banking inquiry due?

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The other Minister behind the Minister for Education and Skills will be aware of this. The facts and analyses show this and it needs to be shared with the public.

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I understand that the banking committee motion will come before this House next Wednesday. The comments and suggestions for change made by Deputy Mathews would be more appropriate when that motion is before this House.

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Will the others get a chance to speak on it?

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Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

Yes. If anybody wishes to ask for time, they should not be afraid to contact my office. This is a debating Chamber and I do not have any intention of excluding anyone unless there are time limits.

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