Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank Mr. Hall and Mr. Curtis for coming before the committee today and for the fantastic work they do. I have referred a few families who were in crisis to Mr. Hall. I am sure we have all met such families. When they come in they are terrified and frightened. They do not know what to do. They do not know who to ask for help. They are terrified of the banks. It is very intimidating for a family member to go into a bank and have a discussion about such an issue, in particular when they do not get treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. That alone could put people off. People just do not know how to handle it. Organisations such as those with which the witnesses are involved are important because people listen, understand and show a little bit of care and that can be life-changing for family members and can help them with the state of their mental health.

It was said the banks have the power and they are running rings around the Department and the Government. Could Mr. Hall elaborate a little on that? When the banks offer a house to vulture funds and iCare gets involved and makes an offer, how is that received? Do they not really care or are they not bothered and more inclined to go with the vulture funds?