The trial of former Icelandic prime minister Geir Haarde opened Monday over his role in the 2008 banking sector collapse that brought the country to its knees. \"I just want to start and draw attention to the fact that this is the first time I get the chance to answer questions regarding this case... I hail the fact that I get to answer questions in the case,\" Haard, 60, told the court as he took the stand.