There were angry scenes in the Dáil last night after the Finance Minister Michael Noonan accused Fianna Fáil of wiping 10% off the value of bank shares.

Noonan has said the shares fell just after Fianna Fáil published its bill to allow limits on variable mortgage interest rates.

A vote on the proposed legislation is due to take place in the Dáil later today.

Noonan has said Fianna Fáil can not be reckless now that the Government does not have a majority.

“Everybody knows the Opposition collectively has more votes than Government and that makes difficulties for the Government, but puts an onus on the Opposition as well,” said Noonan.

“Previously, because the Government was protected by the whipping system, you know, you could have a go. But if you have a go now there’s risk.”