The Tánaiste has vowed the coalition will force banks into dealing with the tens of thousands of people in mortgage arrears.

Eamon Gilmore also says this government will be the one that stands by people in mortgage distress.

He has come under fire in the Dáil from Sinn Féin after 2 years ago in the election campaign Labour promised "peace of mind" to struggling homeowners.

Mr. Gilmore says banks will be made deal with this crisis.

"We are not satisfied with the speed and the urgency with which the banks are dealing with the mortgage issue" he said.

"You may be in no doubt but that we will deal with that issue effectively with the banks".

"That is the approach that we're taking, that approach is being effective - that is the approach which is in the interests of the people who are in mortgage distress" he added.

Pearse Doherty of Sinn Féin questioned the Tánaiste in the Dáil.