NEW FIGURES REVEAL that 44,500 mortgages have fallen into arrears. But it’s not all bad news for struggling homeowners: the incoming coalition have each pledged to introduce a scheme to give relief to those finding it difficult to pay their mortgage.

Labour wants to ban repossessions for 2 years, and use social welfare rent allowance to help those at risk of repossession.

Fine Gael is planning to introduce a scheme that will allow those who can afford 66 per cent of their mortgage to defer interest payments for five years, and it will offer additional relief for those who bought between 2004 and 2007.

With mortgage holders now a whopping €8.6 billion behind in their payments, what do you think should be done? Do you support plans to help them?

Poll Results:

Yes: within limits. (391)

No: they took a risk. (251)

Yes: give them a full bailout. (138)

I don't know (28)

Yes: give them a full bailout.
Yes: within limits.
No: they took a risk.
I don't know

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Poll: Would you support a scheme to help struggling homeowners?

Poll Results:

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.