Shane Ross (Independent)

Startling figures showing our high rate of personal credit, consumption and borrowing were issued yesterday by a company of stockbrokers owned by a bank. The ratio of personal debt to average income will rise from 120% to 160% in the next three years and we are now rated third highest in the euro zone. It is a source of alarm to international observers and the Central Bank that individuals are borrowing so much money for personal consumption. The main problem is the banks' lending for mortgages and credit cards. As the Central Bank will issue a statement next week, I ask that we debate this matter at an early date.