Banking Inquiry was a farcical waste of money

Inevitable from the outset, the Banking Inquiry has become the obvious debacle now on our plate. After costing the taxpayers millions, the 11-member committee seem helpless in providing a clear-cut credible draft report, never mind a final one.

Even more worrying still, it’s becoming apparent the final report could be targeted for publication during Christmas week, a time the public mind will be attracted to more joyful and positive thought-waves elsewhere.

The entire exercise was unnecessary and farcical. It was more like the traditional confessional box, without a penance, than an informative fact-finding Banking Inquiry that could lead to reform.

Aided and abetted by politicians, accountants and regulators; without any inquiry, everybody was aware, unless proved otherwise, it was the irresponsible actions of executive bankers who overlooked the guidelines in customer lending and feathered their own nests with over-the-limit personal borrowings, and that bought Ireland Incorporated to her knees.

Sadly, with the banks now given the free rein again, the line, once more, will often be too busy when the conscience wishes to speak.

James Gleeson

Thurles

Co Tipperary