Senator Darragh O'Brien's calls, so ably supported by Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú, were understandable and I am sure they consider them good politics.

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

Of course. As Senator Darragh O'Brien pointed out, the State's equity in Bank of Ireland is 15%. It used to own more, but millions of euro have been repaid. It is the bank's stated intention to repay the remainder in the shortest possible time.

I know all of that. It is not the point.

There are State guidelines on bankers' remuneration.

Which are exceeded by the chief executive.

Unfortunately, they do not enjoy the force of law.

For God's sake.

This is especially so if one is going to be outgunned by the shareholders, that is, if one owns 15% and is up against the other 85% at an annual general meeting, AGM. I do not know the answer, but I suspect that the Minister probably believes-----

He has given up.

-----it is best to abstain in all circumstances because the proxies will be stacked against him.

Is the Senator asking or answering a question for the Leader?

It is about symbolism.

I do not have a question as such. I wanted to point out-----

People are playing at the gates. They are waiting for the Senator.

Due to my macular edema, I have a slight difficulty in reading a word that I wrote in my notes, but Senator Darragh O'Brien gets the gist of what I am saying and of the position in law.

I am still none the wiser, but I thank the Senator for trying to help.

I will speak with the Senator later.