National Irish Bank (NIB) has decided to close two branches which have been in existence for more than 100 years following a comprehensive review of its branch network.

The branches at Clones, Co Monaghan, and Strokestown, Co Roscommon, employ staff members who will now be relocated and merged with existing branches at Athlone and Monaghan.

Mr Jim Deeney, head of retail financial services, National Irish Bank said, said there were about 300 or 400 live accounts at the two branches to close. Customers would have their accounts transferred automatically to Monaghan and Athlone or if they wished, to any other National Irish Bank location, he added.

Mr Deeney said there were no immediate plans for further branch closures and the company would continue to invest in other branches in areas where business was not declining.