Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears

Wednesday, 8 May 2019

Questions (127, 138)

Peter Fitzpatrick

Question:

127. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Finance if he will address a matter regarding legal fees being added to mortgage arrears accounts (details supplied). [18943/19]

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138. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position on the legal fees of the lender being applied to the mortgage account of the borrower in a mortgage arrears situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19175/19]

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Written answers

Minister for Finance

I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 138 together.

I am advised by the Central Bank of Ireland that it is aware of the reported practice that some lenders apply legal costs to the mortgage accounts of borrowers in arrears before the conclusion of legal proceedings.

The Central Bank is examining this practice to determine if it is permissible under the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears, CCMA, the Consumer Protection Code 2012, and other regulations.