Hobbs: I’ll work for nothing

CONSUMER champion Eddie Hobbs says he is willing to return to the National Consumer Agency on a no-fees basis if re-appointed by the Tánaiste Mary Coughlan.

He quit his role with the NCA partly due to what he called “damage as a consequence of media attention on one member of the board” – Celia Larkin, ex-partner of former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

Revelations from the Mahon tribunal, and the matter of a “soft loan” from Irish Nationwide were instrumental in his requesting that Ms Larkin step down.

Mr Hobbs said he had put himself forward for resignation anyway, as two members automatically had to step down each year.

Board members of the NCA are paid €14,000 plus expenses, but Mr Hobbs said he believed this was too high.