Lenihan claims Boyle’s bank remarks are defamatory

FINANCE Minister Brian Lenihan says Green senator Dan Boyle defamed him by suggesting he was unhealthily close to the banks.

Mr Boyle claimed this week that Fianna Fáil proved reluctant to bring rogue bankers to account during the Greens’ time in coalition with the party.

He also accused Mr Lenihan of taking Irish Nationwide’s side during the controversy over the €1 million bonus paid to its former chief executive, Michael Fingleton.