Cowen denies banking inquiry would implicate Government

Taoiseach Brian Cowen has flatly rejected accusations that he is blocking an inquiry into the banking and financial crisis in case it may implicate him or his Government in the crisis.

He said there may be merit in holding an inquiry at some point in the future.

Calls for an inquiry have come from the economist Colm McCarthy, new Governor of the Central Bank, Patrick Honohan, and today from the Consumer Consultative Panel.

In an end of year review this evening, Brian Cowen says the immediate priorities for the banking system are Nama and recapitalisation if required.