Brian Cowen finally to give his side of the story to bank inquiry

After eight years, €64bn in bailout money, dozens of banking inquiry witnesses, and one hugely controversial blanket guarantee, former taoiseach Brian Cowen will finally give his side of the story on what caused the economic crisis.

The former Fianna Fáil leader will today attend the inquiry for the first of two nine-hour grillings, bringing the investigation to its key make-or-break period.

Mr Cowen became taoiseach in May 2008 after serving as finance minister for four years in the hope he would help the Celtic Tiger keep roaring after a short “soft landing”.