Banking

Bankers hit back at Simon Harris’ ‘laggards’ criticism

Banking Payments Federation of Ireland says it is striking a balance between deposit and mortgage rates

Simon Harris, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, said lenders are trying to have it both ways with rising interest rates. Picture: Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie

The BPFI has hit back at Simon Harris, the Minister for Further and Higher Education’s, claim that Irish banks are trying to “have it both ways” with deposit and mortgage rates.

Harris told RTÉ on Sunday that banks have been quick to pass on interest rate rises to mortgage holders yet “utter laggards” in doing so with depositors.

"It's utterly offensive for Irish banks to be complete and utter laggards when it comes to passing ...