It is another concerning day after Bank of Ireland announced it was to close 15 branches in Northern Ireland, Alliance Finance spokesperson Andrew Muir MLA has said.

Mr Muir has requested meetings with the Financial Services Union and Bank of Ireland following the decision, which follows in the wake of Ulster Bank announcing it was closing its operations in the Republic of Ireland.

Following Ulster Bank’s recent announcement, this is another concerning day for all those who use local banking services, particularly those employed by Bank of Ireland,” said Mr Muir.

“I have sought a meeting with the Financial Services Union and Bank of Ireland in relation to this matter. We need assurance of any impact on staffing levels here and if workers are redeployed, it’s to suitable branches or other positions within the company.

“As the economic downturn continues, local bank branches are more important than ever, especially for those in rural areas and those who have difficulty accessing services in any other way.”