The following is the withdrawal letter sent by Mr Hugh O'Flaherty to the Minister for Finance, Mr McCreevy, yesterday:
At Cahersiveen, Co Kerry.
Mr Charles McCreevy, TD Minister for Finance, Government Buildings, Dublin 2
28/08/00
A Aire, a chara,
I respectfully ask that you withdraw my name for submission as a vice-president of the European Investment Bank.
I am eternally grateful to you, the Taoiseach, Tanaiste and members of the Government, as well as those who favoured me in the recent Dail vote.
The decision to make this request is mine and mine alone.
Please convey my thanks and regards to the officers of your department who treated my situation with such courtesy and consideration throughout.
Beir bua agus beannacht,
Le meas, Hugh J. O'Flaherty
Statement by the Minister for Finance, Mr McCreevy, following Mr O'Flaherty's withdrawal:
The Minister for Finance, Mr Charlie McCreevy TD, announced today that he has received the attached letter from Mr Hugh O'Flaherty stating that he wished to withdraw his candidature for nomination as vice-president of the EIB. The Minister has, with regret, accepted this and is advising the EIB accordingly.
The Minister said that he is disappointed at the decision but he understands why Mr O'Flaherty has taken this course.
The Minister wishes Mr O'Flaherty and his family well in the future.