It was with some disquiet, even dismay that I heard the comments of the public interest director, Mr. Ray MacSharry, to the Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform. His words-----

There is a ruling on this issue already.

I understand that.

We are not discussing individuals.

I understand that but it would be impossible for me to make this contribution without naming this individual. His comments were inappropriate at best, and at worst demonstrate "capture" by the banking industry which is contrary to what we would expect of a public interest director. I ask the Minister for Finance to remove this man immediately from his post. He should be sacked-----

There should be no discussion of individuals.

I have been-----

We are not discussing the proceedings of a committee in the House either.

I am insisting that the Minister remove the public interest director from his position. He should be sacked with immediate effect.

The Senator should say that to his face.

He is an ex-Fianna Fáil man.

There is only one man responsible for the banking crisis in this country.

Bertie Ahern and the Fianna Fáil Party.

His name is Michael Noonan. He is the Minister for Finance.

Amnesia is often positive.

That is what the Senator is suffering from.

We are not discussing the banking crisis today. Does Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill have a question for the Leader?