I have been informed by AIB that in line with normal practice and for reasons of commercial sensitivity, the bank does not publicly disclose the details of contracts with individual external service providers. AIB utilises the expertise of a number of different third party firms on a case by case basis, subject to an evaluation of the bank’s requirements, costs and the relevant external parties. AIB is focused on a significant cost reduction programme and, as part of this process, has policies and procedures in place in respect of the appointment of external third parties. All external service provider contracts entered into by the bank comply with AIB’s policy in relation to engaging external service providers.