Vol. 229 No. 8
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has yet had a further meeting with representatives of the building societies in order to clarify the position in relation to their proposals to increase interest rates; if not, on what date it will take place; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in this matter.
39.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what steps he proposes to take in order to prevent interest rate increase by building societies.
40.
asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if it is his intention to introduce legislation to amend the Building Societies Acts for the purpose of controlling interest charges.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 39 and 40 together.
A further meeting with representatives of the building societies has taken place. An announcement in the matter may be expected at an early date.
In view of the fact that such large numbers of people are vitally interested in the outcome of these discussions, and in view of the fact that we have had indications before that we might expect an announcement at an early date, would the Minister give us a definite indication, in terms of time, as to when a statement will be made by his Department and his intention in regard to the proposals?
In a matter of days.
Can the Minister say if he has made a decision on the matter?
Not a final decision.
Irrespective of the talks, does the Minister not intend to amend the legislation and take control of the situation to make sure that it will not recur? Surely it is obvious that the Minister should take such power?
It is not obvious yet.
It is perfectly obvious, having regard to what has happened to people.
