Tony Mulcahy (Fine Gael)

I was contacted recently by a number of couples and also mortgage brokers who are trying to acquire mortgages from different banks. Even cast-iron cases of people in full-time employment are finding it very difficult to obtain a mortgage. The banks are now inquiring if housing estates are bonded even though these estates are unfinished and they also look for a guarantee that the local authority will take such estates in charge. At a time when property was never such good value, it is virtually impossible for a young couple to get a mortgage and this results in more people coming on to the social housing list. I ask the Leader to consult with the Minister for Finance to extend the remit of the commercial loan review group to cover mortgage holders so that they could apply to the group for a review of their mortgage application. As it stands, one can only get a mortgage if one has a full-time job and a suitable income. It may require legislation to include mortgage holders within the remit of the review group but it is essential to facilitate young couples who can afford to buy a house.