asked the Minister for Finance if he will comment on the recent statement by the Economic and Social Research Institute that a continued closure of the banks could have very strong cumulative effects on the economy in either an inflationary or recessionary direction.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Banks Closure.
17.
In reply to a parliamentary question on 23rd June by Deputy Donegan I said that it was not possible then to assess the effects of the continuing bank closure on the balance of payments. This still applies and is equally true of the effects of the closure on the general level of business activity. I accept the view expressed by members of the staff of the Economic and Social Research Institute in their recent economic commentary that the longer the associated banks remain closed the greater the uncertainty regarding the impact of the closure on the economy.
Is the Minister in a position to state when we may expect the banks to reopen?
No.
Does the Minister intend to do anything about it?
No.
There are certain things being done about it.
Can we take it that they are of a helpful nature?
I would hope so.
Could the Minister tell us if all citizens are being treated equally during the closure of the banks?
That is a separate question.
I know they are not.