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

I am well aware of what is happening, as Deputy Doherty put it, underneath my nose. I am aware of the number of mortgages that have been successfully restructured.

The number of mortgages in arrears is declining but citizens still face challenges if they find they are in arrears and are worried about their future. This is why we have organisations like Abhaile and the Insolvency Service of Ireland, which has been successful in ensuring that the majority of citizens who find themselves in difficulties stay in their homes. Very few Deputies refer to these when we are acknowledging the difficulties that exist and I rarely hear recognition of the progress that has been made, nor of the protections that are in place.

In respect of loan book sales, I do not have a role to influence or direct banks on how they manage their commercial operations but I have a responsibility to make sure protections are in place for citizens who find themselves in difficult situations. The figures I have shared with the House show how those regulations are working

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