Ulster Bank informed staff yesterday of plans to close 15 branches and sub-offices across Ireland by November.
This will reduce the number of locations it operates from to 199 from 214. It is the first step in a wider plan to reduce its network to between 175 and 185 locations.
The 10 branches earmarked for closure in the Republic are at South Mall in Cork, Pearse Road in Sligo, Granard in Co Longford, Clane in Co Kildare, and three in Dublin (Kimmage, Inchicore and George’s Quay). Sub-offices in Clara, Co Offaly, Enfield, Co Meath, and Lifford, Co Donegal, are also to shut.
Five branches are to close in the North.
Ulster Bank said the closures were in response to “changing customer behaviours”, particularly through the use of mobile and online banking.
Alternative locations
“We continue to invest in these alternative banking channels to improve access to our services for our customers. We will be contacting customers of these branches to inform them of alternative locations in their area and the range of banking services available on their mobiles, online and by telephone.”
Larry Broderick, general secretary of the Irish Bank Officials Association, expressed his concern at the announcement in the context of wider discussions on restructuring between the union and Ulster Bank.
"Those negotiations have reached a crucial stage with the two sides agreeing to refer all unresolved issues – including proposals for branch closures – to an independent mediator, Mark Connaughton, who is due to meet the parties this week."
