Almost 7,300 complaints were lodged by members of the public against various financial institutions last year, according to the Financial Ombudsman.

The Irish Examiner reports that the Financial Ombudsman has said that while there has been a 3 per cent decrease in the amount of complaints made in comparison to 2010, they still remain “extremely high.” Given the history that Ireland has with financial services, we’re actually surprised that the level of complaints isn’t higher.

Actually, we're surprised that people aren't out on the street Greek-style, flinging dog poo at the banks. But then again, we're not as bad as Greece just yet and the good news is that the complaints are being taken seriously and angry members of the public are being paid compensation if their complaints are justified.

At least €1million was paid out in compensation over these complaints, as a result of the findings of William Prasifka, the Financial Ombudsman.

So what’s everyone moaning about then? Complaints against insurance companies are the most common and account for 47 per cent of the total received. These complaints related to payment protection and mortgage protection policies.

There was also a LOT of complaints made about banks, with 40 per cent of these complaints related to mortgages and mortgage repayments.

“It has been the FSO’s long-stated position to encourage financial institutions to actively engage with consumers when a complaint is raised and try to resolve matters as soon as possible,” said Mr Prasifka.

“Recent trends indicate that some institutions are taking on board the FSO’s findings and guidelines. However, the industry must continue to change its practices in dealing with consumers and make genuine efforts to work with consumers before complaints are referred to the FSO,” he added.

So the complaints decrease last year? The Financial Ombudsman probably shouldn't get his hopes up though because if water charges, septic tank charges and the controversial household charge all go ahead, we reckon the complaints could skyrocket again this year...