'They can't have it both ways' — Harris blasts banks for failing to pass rate rises on to savers

Higher Education Minister Simon Harris said Ireland does need a competitive banking sector 'but we also need a reality check here from the banks. They can't have it both ways'. Picture: Brian Lawless

The Further Education Minister has slammed Irish banks for failing to pass on interest rate increases to saving deposit accounts.

Simon Harris described the situation as "offensive", with mortgage holders being hit by increased rates due to European Central Bank (ECB) rate hikes, but savers not reaping any benefits.