This figure is in line with the number of judgments awarded during the same month last year (423). The value of these judgments however, has increased by 12% on last February's figure of E35.9m.

Consumers were hardest hit this February, accounting for 315 (76%) of the judgments awarded - these judgments had a combined value of E32.4m (an average value of almost E103,000 per judgment).

The offices of the revenue commissioner were awarded 137 of the 315 judgments against consumers, these amounted to E5.9m approx. The banks were awarded just 28 judgments against consumers, however, these had a combined value of almost E24m.

Bad debt judgments against companies this February amounted to E7.8m - this is up 33% compared to the same period 12 months ago - E5.9m. The banks were awarded E6.4m of this total while the offices of the revenue commissioner were awarded a further E0.6m.