Cochrane says we need to look at other means of providing banking services following branch closures

Alliance Finance spokesperson Judith Cochrane has commented on the announcement that First Trust Bank will close branches in Ballymoney, Finaghy, Ballynahinch and Stormont. Staff at these branches will be offered other positions or voluntary redundancy.

It follows the decision by Ulster Bank to close up to 39 of its branches across the island of Ireland with further potential job losses.

Judith Cochrane MLA said: “While First Trust will only close four branches at this stage, it is still concerning news for those affected customers and employees.

“The issue of branch closures is affecting all of our banks. We need to look at other innovative solutions to providing banking services for customers including the use of our post office network. These announcements will surely have an impact on the level of services for customers if alternative arrangements are not sought and we cannot allow customers, particularly in rural areas to be left isolated from banking services.”

ENDS