They certainly played a part in the demise of the banking system and the development of the current problems in the economy. That should not be forgotten.

Senator Eamonn Coghlan spoke about the indoor athletics track at Athlone Institute of Technology, which we have all seen in recent weeks. It is a wonderful amenity for the region and the country. I note the Senator's point that Dublin would like to have such a track also, but that is another day's work. I will bring the matter to the attention of the Minister.

Senators Walsh and Mullins called for the benchmarking of salaries in the public service with those in other countries. I note Senator Mullins's points also on the supplementary payroll system in Tallaght Hospital between 2005 and 2010, about which I have read, with people having top-ups on salaries of over €200,000. That was presided over by the previous Government.