Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Higgins has raised two matters, namely, mortgage distress and those who are suffering it and the issue of the banks. First, we want alternatives to having people lose their homes. That is a fundamental principle which we want to hold on to. Second, we must distinguish between those who cannot pay and those who will not pay. That must be addressed.

There will be no automatic blanket write-down. If the Deputy has not already received the report he will receive it tomorrow. I ask him to read it and study it over the weekend. He will have an opportunity to contribute to the debate next week.

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