Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 January 2014
27. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he shares the view expressed by the National Asset Management Agency that there is an organised campaign of misinformation whose objective is to undermine the effectiveness of NAMA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1650/14]
View answerIt is not clear to me what the motivation behind these allegations is or how they found their way into the media or to the Oireachtas member who made a statement in the Seanad in December. It is unfortunate that the press coverage and speculation appears to call into question the integrity and professionalism of NAMA and its staff. The progress the Agency is making in hitting its targets is a testament to the focus and hard work of the staff, management and board of NAMA.
I was encouraged by NAMA’s request to appear before the Public Accounts Committee and felt this gave both NAMA and the Oireachtas an opportunity to air their respective concerns and clarify any confusion or misunderstanding.
I would like to reiterate, in relation to the recent reports, if any party has evidence of any impropriety, they are legally obliged, under Section 19 of the Criminal Justice Act 2011, to bring it to the immediate attention of the Garda Siochana. Needless to say if any matter is brought to the Garda or NAMA’s attention, it will be fully investigated.
