asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware of any recent restrictions imposed by the Irish banks on the provision of credit facilities, and, if so, whether such restrictions had his approval.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Restriction of Credit Facilities.
The figures of bank advances do not support the suggestion in the Deputy's question. Bank advances outstanding within the State increased from £126.5 million on 31 December, 1954, to £146.3 million at the end of September, 1955, that is by almost £20,000,000 in nine months.
Would the Minister be able to break down the figures of the increase so as to indicate how much of it is due to Government and local authority funds and how much is due to ordinary concerns?
If the Deputy will read Table 6 of the Statistical Return of the Central Bank he will get that information there.
I have done so and it shows that a great deal of the increase is due to local authority and Government funds.
If he examines that paragraph he will find that there is no justification for the question and that the increase for other concerns is very substantial indeed.