Two of Irelands biggest banks are being forced to reassure investors they have sufficient funds.

AIB and Bank of Ireland are issuing statements to clarify that they have enough equity to cover their losses in the event of another crash.

It comes after the European Banking Authority found that AIB in particular was one of the worst performing financial institutions in Europe - with both banks failing stress tests.

However, the banks claim the figures being used are outdated and that their finances have improved since.

Brendan Keenan of the Irish Independent says the debate around interest rates and other areas needs to change: