Rose Conway Walsh (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The bottom line is that what was done cost the State €230 million and nobody is responsible. That is of concern to every Irish citizen. It will continue to be a concern. The bank implements a 20% stress on foreign earnings when an applicant seeks a mortgage. I understand the rationale for that but, given the nature of our island economy, using the maximum available stress rate is a step too far. I should note that other banks do not even entertain applications in sterling so it is welcome that AIB does, but many cross-Border workers are affected. They effectively find that they need an extra 20% of income to access a mortgage that their neighbours do not. Will Mr. Byrne look at this issue which affects Irish citizens living in the South?