FF calls for Central Bank clarity over interest-only mortgage product

Michael McGrath claims judgment could be made against family home if investment goes wrong

Fianna Fáil finance spokesman Michael McGrath has called on the Central Bank to clarify if it endorsed a product that offers an interest-only mortgage for buy-to-let investments.

Mr McGrath was commenting on buy-to-let mortgages being advertised by Dilosk/ICS Mortgage that involves the option of the borrower – including private landlords - paying interest-only for up to 15 years.

Mr McGrath warned such investments could become personal debt and that a judgment could be made against the family home.

“This could return back to hit individuals. When this goes wrong it could hit a lot of innocent victims,” he told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland.

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“I’m not sure the Central Bank specifically examined this.”

Mr McGrath said that if a move was made to help landlords then it should be done through the tax system.