Plan will not expose taxpayer, says Lenihan

Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan has said the €10 billion recapitalisation programme for banks will not result in exposure to the taxpayer.

Speaking tonight on RTE television, Mr Lenihan said the substantial money in the national pension fund would be used to support the banks "on terms that will ensure a full return to the tax payer and to the pension fund".

"There will be no exposure to the taxpayer on this because as a result of the good times we do have substantial money amassed in the pension fund, so there is no question of fresh expense being incurred in this operation," he said.

"The State is prepared to deploy its wealth to secure the banking sector in the interests of the whole economy."

Mr Lenihan said the banks would be assessed on a case by case basis depending on the importance of each lender to the financial stability of the country.

He said some financial institutions are so imbedded in the economy, in terms of their borrowing and deposits that they are of "systemic importance".

"It is very important that our banking system is seen to sustain our economy and support our economy," he said.

The institutions have been asked to submit their applications early next month.

Fine Gael spokesman on finance Richard Bruton said the announcement was vague and sketchy on detail.

He said it seemed designed to buy time for the Government rather than to get cash flowing through the banks.

IBEC welcomed the announcement. Director General Turlough O'Sullivan said it would ensure long-term stability and have a positive impact on the ability of large and small businesses to acquire finance and trade successfully.