Bertie: I'll appear before banking inquiry if asked

Bertie Ahern said he will appear before the Dail's banking inquiry if he's asked to do so.

It comes as preparations continue for the hearings, which are expected to get underway in the coming weeks.

The inquiry is being set up by the Oireachtas Committee on Procedure and Privileges.

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern left office in 2008, months before the bank guarantee was introduced.

He said he has no problem with the prospect of being invited to attend any hearings.