How PMS savers have been led a merry dance
18 February 2010
Statement by Jim Allister QC:
On the day when the Treasury Select Committee Report identified undeniable failings by DETI and others, local Executive members, instead of gleaning from the Treasury Select Committee Report ammunition to help the fight on behalf of PMS savers, have reacted in arrogance and anger over the justified criticisms, it is timely to reflect on the many false promises and false dawns offered to these hard-pressed savers. Sadly, the response of Executive Ministers suggests their own pride matters more to them than the plight of those they have long promised to help.
One can only hope they get over themselves and face up to their responsibilities, including those which flow from the inexcusable failure of DETI to plug the regulatory gap that permitted this crisis to evolve.
7 July 2009 – Irish Times
Following his meeting yesterday with the Prime Minister Peter Robinson has reported significant progress on the problem of the PMS.
9 July 2009 – News Letter
The First Minister “I want people to know that serious and strenuous efforts are being made on their behalf”.
24 July 2009 – News Letter
PMS Working Group unveiled.
21 August 2009 – News Letter
Following a meeting with six savers Minister Foster said “Continuing to do all that we can to help achieve a positive outcome”
Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster told the News Letter the group – set up by Gordon Brown in June is on course to deliver its findings this month as planned. “Plan to submit a draft report to the Prime Minister later this month”.
Jeffrey Donaldson said that he was “hopeful that the final report will be published in October.
Donaldson said “Working officials would bring forward a draft report for Ministers at a meeting on
16 October 2009 –News Letter
Minister Foster – “Progress continues to be made…. Finding a solution is a priority for the Executive and we will leave no stone unturned”
17 October 2009 – News Letter
F/Minister Robinson – “They are doing all they can to work for a quick solution”
F/Minister Robinson – “We are doing all that we can to work towards a solution for PMS members”.. “The matter is receiving our close attention”
9 November 2009 – NI Assembly Debates
DF/Minister McGuinness – “I think that we are now rapidly moving towards a conclusion and I hope that it will be a successful one”.
11 November 2009 – Belfast
The delayed report on the collapsed PMS will be presented to Gordon Brown “within weeks” the Secretary of State for
17 November 2009 – BBC News NI –
The NI Finance Minister has said he is confident there will be a satisfactory conclusion for members of the failed Presbyterian Mutual Society.
22 December 2009 – BBC NI NEWS
Talks with a bank interested in taking over the Presbyterian Mutual Society are at an advanced stage, Jeffrey Donaldson has said. “Developments could be announced in the New Year”
First Minister Peter Robinson said work would continue to try to help those affected. These efforts could not be rushed.
