Arthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour) | Oireachtas source

If I could impress one idea on the bank it is that in the event people are pushed to sell their home the bank should write off all of the debt. I know it is a financial institution with fiduciary duties to its shareholders, but in no other part of the world is somebody who loses his or her home, given that it is not a trophy home but a moderate home, on the line for something as basic as putting a roof over his or her head for years to come. I was shocked to hear AIB does not write off any debt but keeps people on the line long term. I can see Permanent TSB is taking a more compassionate and realistic approach. I impress upon the witnesses the idea people should be given as much of a break as possible when they are down and out; let us get them back into the workforce. I thank the witnesses for their time.