Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have not yet been consulted formally by Permanent TSB representatives regarding their intentions, though as the process moves forward, they are required to formally consult with, and inform, me regarding the magnitude of what is under way and to ask for my views on certain matters. The regulations we have in place have played an important role in dealing with mortgage arrears and in reducing the number of non-performing loans, NPLs, throughout the economy and within banks. However, I have indicated that I will examine the 2015 Act with a fresh eye, conscious of the change that is coming up.

With regard to the role of vulture funds, as the Deputy will be aware, the process is only in its early stages. I am limited at the moment in terms of what I can say because of the commercial sensitivity about some of this but I am aware of the human sensitivity in respect of how people will feel if they believe their homes will be affected by this. The regulations we have in place have played a role in preventing even greater difficulty in the recent past but I will examine them again.