Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I support the call for the Minister for Finance, Deputy Noonan, to come before the House again. While his visit yesterday evening was very useful, I was only allowed to speak on the issue of economic recovery and job creation for one minute. I would like the Minister to return to the House to discuss mortgage arrears.

I have noticed a conflict between the position on the ground in respect of mortgage arrears and the position suggested in media reports. Last Monday week, I was at a meeting in Oranmore with 90 people who are experiencing difficulty with debt. They included people who have been in arrears for five years and are deeply worried they will lose their homes. Two people have disclosed at private meetings that they plan to take their lives as a result of mortgage arrears. There is not a more important issue. I concur with Senator Jim Walsh on this occasion.