The Communications Minister is accusing Stephen Donnelly of ducking-out of the banking inquiry, because of the workload.

The Independent Wicklow TD quit as a member of the committee last month, insisting that it had lost its credibility.

His decision followed the appointment of two Senators to the inquiry, a move designed to ensure the government had a majority.

Minister Pat Rabbitte says it was known from day one that the committee was going to reflect the position of the parties.

And he says he does not accept Deputy Donnelly's complaints: