Sir, – In 2008, the banks’ losses were socialised, that is the taxpayer picked up the bill and in at least two cases are still waiting to be repaid. By accepting the bailout they agreed to the socialist contract: to each according to their needs and from each according to their means.
It’s time now to socialise those excess profits the banks are making as a result of the increases in the ECB deposit rate. The banking sector is estimated to make approximately €3 billion in excess profits this year, that’s just from interest they get from our money on deposit.
A levy should apply, for two years, to take most of this excess profit and be given as a tax credit to those paying increased mortgage interest. – Yours, etc,
CHARLES McLAUGHLIN,
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Portobello,
Dublin 8.