The European Central Bank President Mario Draghi is being asked to meet all 11 Irish MEPs in the European Parliament, to explain the ECB position regarding the Banking Inquiry.

Four Fine Gael MEPs have expressed disappointment at the level of cooperation shown by the ECB to the inquiry.

The ECB says it is only accountable to the European Parliament, not national parliaments.

MEPs Seán Kelly, Mairead McGuinness, Brian Hayes and Deirdre Clune have now requested a meeting with Mr Draghi at the European Parliament to provide clarity on its position.

Speaking in Brussels, Mr Kelly 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 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.