Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have several questions on the return to shareholders. If there was less obligation to make a return to the shareholder or shareholders, would the bank be in a position to deliver more with regard to the standard variable rate? One of the suite of options offered to mortgages in distress is mortgage-to-rent, and the bank clearly states there is zero take-up of this option. To me this is very disappointing because in theory it is the best solution whereby people stay in their home. They surrender ownership, which is painful, but they can remain in their home and pay rent according to capacity. Given the €220,000 threshold that applies, it is an option available to very few people in the greater Dublin area because of property prices. Does the issue of value need to be significantly examined?