Harris calls for action to support Wicklow families in mortgage arrears

Posted May 25th, 2012 in Finance

Wicklow TD says urgent action must be taken to implement Keane Report recommendations on mediator appointments

Fine Gael Wicklow TD, Simon Harris, has called on the Minister for Finance to fast-track the proposals contained in the Keane Report to support the appointment of mediators to work with families in mortgage arrears.

Deputy Harris said, “Almost every week at my clinics I meet families trying to negotiate with their bank. While many banks are acting in a responsible and constructive manner, this is a very intimidating situation for anyone to be in. Many people now having difficulty making their mortgage repayments have never had any need to negotiate with their bank before, and feel on the back foot during this process.”

“The MABS offices in Arklow and Bray do excellent work supporting individuals in financial difficulty, however they are overloaded with work. The Keane Report recommends the appointment of mediators with real clout to assist individuals in mortgage arrears in their negotiations with the banks. I have asked the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan TD, to implement this aspect of the report as a matter of urgency.”