Banks and a raw deal for savers

Poor returns

Sir, – Robert Whelan’s article “Banks need to pass on rate hikes to savers as well as borrowers” (Business, Opinion, July 31st) is just so relevant at this time.

There must be an awareness in Dáil Éireann that this will be a vital element as the next general election approaches. – Yours, etc,

ROBERT SHARPE,

Cootehill,

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Co Cavan.

Sir, – It’s time people rose up and let the banks know how frustrating it is to see our adult children being hammered by interest hikes while those of us with any money in the bank are effectively losing money due to inflation, bank charges, etc, all while the banks are posting record profits. – Yours, etc,

LINDA SPAIN,

Rathfarnham,

Dublin 14.

Sir, – I refer to Robert Whelan’s excellent article in The Irish Times regarding how Irish banks are disgracefully not paying savers their due.

Swedish banks are paying, at present, up to 3 per cent for savers in euro. They offer 4.5 per cent for US dollars and 4 per cent for Swedish kronors.

Most European countries, except Ireland, are paying savers a decent interest rate on savings or deposit accounts.

Should Irish people perhaps consider moving their euro savings to another EU country that would treat them fairly? – Yours, etc,

MARGARET SHEERAN,

Gothenburg,

Sweden.