Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

Will there be any watchdog system to ensure the banks' portfolios are more balanced in future?

I am not trying to be populist about the banks. I recognise that we all want to be part of the dream. For every risky loan that is given out, there is a risk taker and somebody only too willing to take the money. I also recognise that banks must lend money. However, we need a return to the banks of old — to the image we had of them as being dull, staid, boring, cautious and careful. We no longer have that image. What is the Government's plan to create the conditions that will ensure this happens? What will happen to restore confidence in the banking system? If we do not restore confidence in the banking system, what the Minister is doing now——. I do not know what the Minister is laughing at.

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