Call for Ulster Bank to offer assurances to staff and customers

A Dublin TD has called for assurances from senior management around the future of Ulster Bank in Ireland.

The call comes as the Minister for Finance meets the bank today amid growing concerns.

Dublin North West TD and Social Democrats co-leader Róisín Shortall TD said customers and staff need to know what is going on.

“There has been speculation for weeks around the future of Ulster Bank,” she said.

“Neither bank management in Ireland, nor the parent company Natwest, have been in a position to clarify the future for customers and staff.

“The Minister needs to make it clear that the needs of customers and staff have to be prioritised.

“The potential exit of such a big player in Irish banking would have a very negative impact.

“Staff and customers need to hear clear commitments from bank management as to the future.

“The Minister needs to press for assurances around the review which Natwest are currently conducting into Ulster Bank operations in the Republic of Ireland.

“The voices of staff and customers need to be heard in this review.

“The Minister should seek assurances that the review will take on board these views, as well as look at the potential impact of any sale on the Irish economy.”