IT might be cheering to record that nothing other than practical patriotism is behind the impressive uptake of the National Solidarity Bond but it may also be a comment on the great difficulties facing the banks.

It has been reported that consumers have invested more than €70m into the Government's National Solidarity Bond.

OVER €70 million has been invested in the Government’s National Solidarity Bond since its inception in early May – with €20m of that being injected inside the last three weeks.

IRELAND raised €1.5 billion yesterday, at higher interest rates than earlier this year, adding to the €93 billion national debt.

THE Government’s latest savings initiative has been guardedly welcomed, with one economist saying it won’t make you rich, but with no fees or charges has certain attractions.

INVESTORS who bail out the state with their savings will earn a 50% return over 10 years under the terms of a new National Solidarity Bond.

AN Post had pre-tax losses of €25.6 million in 2009 in what it called its most commercially challenging year ever. Profit before tax in 2008 was €39.9m.

The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) today announced details of the National Solidarity Bond.

An Post turnover declined 5.4% from €850m in 2008 to €804.2m last year, it was announced today.

Finance Minister Brian Lenihan is tonight set to announce details of a new National Solidarity Bond to allow members of the public help stimulate the economy and create jobs.

THE first point to be made about the National Solidarity Bond is it is not another SSIA scheme to which the Government will contribute.