Taoiseach has ‘nothing to hide’ in dealings with banks

THE Taoiseach was forced to insist he has “nothing to hide” in his dealings with the banks following accusations from the Labour Party that he had “tailor-made” laws to suit top bankers.

As more details emerged of bonuses and payments made to senior bank executives following state bail-outs, Brian Cowen told the Dáil: “ I hold no brief for any bank executive or bank,” adding that he did not “seek to justify” any of these payments.

Mr Cowen said the Government “fully supports” efforts by the Irish Nationwide board to recoup a €1 million bonus paid to former chief executive Michael Fingleton.