Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That intervention is a pathetic attempt to acquire and involve Deputy Martin in political opportunism. Deputy Martin knows the licensed regulator of the banks is the Central Bank, and the conditions and attitude have changed entirely from his time in government in terms of the operations of the Central Bank, the licensing of banks, the introduction of the personal insolvency agency, and the result of the Dunne case, but also, it has been made perfectly clear that house repossessions in this country are a last resort, as was specified by the banks. The targets set down by the Central Bank require banks to offer those in mortgage arrears or mortgage distress opportunities by the end of this quarter to find a solution to get them out of the difficulties they are in. These targets will be achieved and overseen.

The Government was of the view that we should put a referendum to the people in respect of inquiries and the authority in that regard. It was rejected by the people and we cannot argue with the people.

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