I support Senator O'Brien's proposal on the need to discuss the banking situation. The President, Michael D. Higgins, this week referred to the lack of value placed on Irish society and the lack of values bankers hold, and I agree with those sentiments.

The manner in which Irish bankers have treated the Irish people is disgraceful. They have raped the Irish taxpayer. The fact that the current Government knew about the Anglo Irish Bank tapes for some time is beyond belief. Why was there no action on the tapes before they were released to the media? Why has the Minister for Justice and Equality not stepped up to the mark?

The Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Alan Shatter, should come to the House to explain what exactly is being done in regard to the Anglo tapes. He should likewise explain what is happening with the Lowry tapes which are being left to one side, apparently because of amnesia on the Government's part.

Does the Senator have a question for the Leader?

It is Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill who seems to have amnesia.