A kidnapping and raids on an NIB branch in north Dublin has resulted in the cessation of its cash services there and a security review throughout the bank's entire network.
The finishing of cash services at the Howth Road branch follows a detailed security review after the incident last August in which an armed gang kidnapped the family of a bank official who was forced to deliver cash, believed to be in the region of €270,000, from the branch.
The decision also takes account of previous raids at the branch.
From December 1st, the branch will no longer handle cash transactions including cash withdrawals, cash lodgements and night-safe lodgements. It will continue to process transactions which do not involve cash and will provide all other services. The ATM will also be retained.
NIB chief executive Andrew Healy said: "The safety and security of our staff and customers is our number one priority. The decision taken today ensures the continuation of the banks's presence in Howth Road while at the same time addressing the risk of further attacks on our branch, its staff and customers."
He said that in light of events at Howth Road, the NIB had also completed a review of security across its entire branch network.
"Various measures have already been introduced including a significant reduction in cash levels held. Further changes will be implemented as deemed necessary over the coming months," he said.
Customers at Howth Road branch will be contacted directly in the coming weeks and they will be provided with information about alternative options for regular cash transactions.
Mr Healy said they regretted that it had been necessary to introduce this change and acknowledged that it would result in some inconvenience to customers. Over the coming weeks, they would be working closely with those customers to assist them in making alternative arrangements.