State-backed lenders fail homeowners in arrears

The largest lenders in the country are lagging far behind rivals in funnelling distressed borrowers into a Government scheme intended to offer an escape route for lower-income families.

Data reveal the number of mortgage-to-rent solutions finalised by State-backed banks in the past three years significantly trail smaller lenders and asset managers.

AIB, Bank of Ireland, EBS, and Permanent TSB have found solutions for hard-pressed families under the scheme just 13 times since it was launched in June 2012.