A Sligo TD has called for the introduction of a targeted and capped mortgage interest relief scheme.

Independent Deputy Marian Harkin says she supports Sinn Fein's motion calling for such a measure to be introduced on a temporary basis to help homeowners who are struggling.

She says that no one could have forecast the persistent increases from the ECB in rates for mortgages and when coupled with the cost of living crisis, could be detrimental to many Irish households.

Deputy Harkin said that the Sinn Fein proposal does not ask the government to absorb all the costs, the relief would apply to just 30% of the increased mortgage interest costs.

She has been speaking to Midwest Radio's Alannah Nolan....