Exhibit 16(23)(a) - Consent of Ernst and Young LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" in the Registration Statement (Form S-1, No. 333-_____) and related Prospectus of ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company and to the inclusion and incorporation by reference therein of our reports dated March 24, 2006, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedules of ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K/A, Amendment No. 1) for the year ended December 31, 2005, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, included in Part I within the Prospectus.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Atlanta, Georgia

April 7, 2006