Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The number of debt deals being processed through the new insolvency agency has been dismal up to now to say the least. In the first half of 2014, fewer than 30 cases were being processed. I hope there will be a positive outcome from the Taoiseach's engagement last week on the new agency. All the evidence is that the banks do not want to deal with the majority of people in debt distress. They are cherry-picking those who have short-term arrears of one year while those who have been in arrears for two years or more are being ignored. The banks are making no effort to engage with these people. That is why we have a figure of 37,500. It is outlandish how it has been allowed to slide to that level. The regulator and the Department of Finance have absolutely no powers in respect of the banks. It is really a case of the tail wagging the dog. This will have to end and our State bodies and the Minister for Finance will have to row in and assist the Taoiseach in his efforts. The banks will have to face up to the catastrophe they played a major role in creating. They are now reneging on their obligations and failing to carry out their responsibilities. In many cases, the banks are dragging their heels and treating people in a very unfair manner.

I ask the Taoiseach to provide assistance to MABS and New Beginnings who are carrying out Trojan work on the ground. They are short of staff and resources but they have been playing a very effective role. They could do more over the next 12 months if they received the proper assistance. There are a number of volunteers out there who are specialising in this area also. I can give the Taoiseach a number of names. Perhaps they could also be given some assistance.

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