Poll finds public approve of bank deposit scheme

A new poll has revealed that the vast majority of Irish people back the Government's €400bn bank deposit guarantee scheme.

The survey, conducted by Quantum Research for the Sunday Independent shows that the plan has been a resounding success with the public, with 83% support from Irish people.

However, only 40% were in favour of extending it to foreign owned banks that operate here.

A massive 92% of people wanted to see the Government get tough with the sector and are calling for stricter regulation and supervision, while 90% wanted the remuneration packages for bank bosses cut.

The Taoiseach's popularity rating has increased in the aftermath of the scheme’s introduction, with 52% of people now satisfied with Brian Cowen - an increase of seven points since August.

However, Opposition parties have also increased. Labour leader Eamon Gilmore, who was against the scheme, has risen six points to 47%, while Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny rose three points to 34%.