FSU welcome Northern Ireland Assembly Finance Committee motion in support of the establishment of a Banking Forum in Northern Ireland.

Committee also passes motion asking all Banks to pause branch closures.

John O’Connell, General Secretary of the Financial Services Union has welcomed two motions passed by the Northern Ireland Assembly Finance Committee in support of the establishment of a Banking Forum in Northern Ireland and a call to pause all branch closures.

The Financial Services Union presented to the Finance Committee on Wednesday making the case for the Banking Forum and outlining concerns about how proposed branch closures will affect small business and SME’s.

“I thank the Finance Committee for the invitation and taking the time to listen to our presentation. The FSU are heartened that the Finance Committee in the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Finance Committee in the Dail have both passed motions in favour of the establishment of a banking forum involving in all stakeholders. The Minister for Finance in Northern Ireland has also expressed his full support for the foru

It is clear that people trust their local Branch but do not trust their Bank. An inclusive debate will be good for customers, staff, and the Bank.

I would again call on Bank of Ireland to pause their proposed branch closures in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. There was unanimity from the Assembly committee endorsing this view and I hope that the Bank will listen and act on the concerns of the Assembly and their customers “concluded Mr O’Connell.

ENDS