Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 1 Feb 1994

Vol. 438 No. 1

Written Answers. - Third Banking Force.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

28 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance the progress, if any, that has been made to date with regard to the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government, 1993-1997, to develop a third banking force; when it will be established; if it is intended that the Trustee Savings Bank should be involved; if he has had any discussions with Trustee Savings Bank on the proposals; if not, the plans, if any, he has to have such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Finance (Mr. B. Ahern)

In relation to the questions concerning progress made with regard to the Government's commitment to develop a third banking force, and the timing of future developments, I would refer the Deputy to the answer I gave to Priority Question No. 15.

It is intended that Trustee Savings Bank will participate in the evolution of a third force in banking. To date I have had no formal talks with either the Trustees or the management of the bank, other than the meeting to which I referred in my reply on 12 October 1993. After the Government have considered proposals from me on this matter I will be in a position to engage in formal discussions with all interested parties, including the Trustees of Trustee Savings Bank.