Locals and public representatives in Clare are being urged not to lose the fight to try to retain local services.
Fear has been mounting in three areas in the county that their local Bank of Ireland branch will be one of more than 80 slated to be on the verge of closure, as part of a review of operations.
Bank of Ireland is currently reviewing its operations and it’s been reported that it could look to close nearly a third of its 265 branches nationwide.
The bank has neither confirmed nor denied the reports.
In the Dáil yesterday, Clare Independent TD Michael McNamara expressed concern that here in Clare, branches in Tulla, Kilkee and Miltown Malbay could be closed
They were shut at the beginning of the pandemic last year, but have since re-opened, albeit on reduced opening hours.
Tanaiste Leo Varadkar has told the Dáil that a reduction in the number of banks is inevitible.
But while acknowledging these changing trends, an East Clare Fine Gael Councillor says we shouldn’t lose the fight to keep vital services open.
Bodyke Councillor Joe Cooney says the Tulla branch is a vital service for local businesses and the local community.
Miltown Malbay’s Green Councillor says she is to raise the issue with her party leader, Transport Minister Eamon Ryan.
Councillor Susan Crawford says the loss of banking services from Miltown Malbay would be another major blow.
Seperately, two other Clare towns are poised to lose bank branches, with news that Ulster Bank is to begin a phased exit from the Irish market – ending its 160 year presence here.
The bank has branches in Ennis and Shannon.
The Finance Minister says it’s a difficult day for staff and customers – but that the announcement doesn’t come as a surprise.
