MEPs seek clarity from ECB over Irish banking inquiry

The four Irish EPP Group MEPs (Fine Gael) are seeking clarity on the European Central Bank's (ECB) position on the Irish banking inquiry, following the failure of ECB President Mario Draghi to appear before the inquiry in Dublin.

MEPs Seán Kelly, Mairead McGuinness, Brian Hayes and Deirdre Clune have continuously urged the ECB, IMF and Commission to cooperate with the inquiry.Speaking in Brussels today, Mr Kelly, leader of the Fine Gael delegation, said:

"In the interests of democracy, it is entirely appropriate and of the utmost importance that the Irish banking inquiry hears all relevant evidence, including that from the ECB given its role, so the inquiry can provide full and clear answers to the Irish people. 

"The Fine Gael MEPs have previously called on the ECB to fully cooperate with the banking inquiry and will reiterate this position in any meetings with the ECB President Mario Draghi." 

The MEPs expressed disappointment with the level of cooperation shown by the ECB to date with the inquiry. The ECB states that it is only accountable to the European Parliament - not to national parliaments. In light of this, the Fine Gael MEPs are supporting a request asking Mr Draghi to meet all 11 Irish MEPs in the European Parliament to provide clarity on the ECB's position on the inquiry as soon as possible. 

"The EPP Group, the biggest political grouping in the European Parliament, also supports our request that all EU institutions fully engage with the inquiry and has acknowledged the need for transparency and cooperation to allow the inquiry to conduct its business without hindrance," Mr Kelly added.