Tags: Bank of Scotland Ireland, Cork, Halifax, Ireland, job losses, politics, Séan Sherlock

THE closure of Bank of Scotland Ireland’s Halifax branches has been described as “distressing” by Cork Labour TD, Sean Sherlock.

“Bank of Scotland Ireland’s decision to shut down its Halifax operation is very regrettable and I fear that the closure will cause further uncertainty for worker and customer alike.

“To my mind and from the point of view of the 750 people who have just been told that they are redundant, not enough was done to protect these jobs. The Unite trade union had offered alternatives to save their members hardship, advice that was ignored by all accounts.

“Furthermore, the timing of this decision, when there is much uncertainty in the financial sector, has caused added distress for Bank Of Scotland Ireland’s remaining employees in the corporate and commercial sector.

“For their retail customers, Bank Of Scotland Ireland have heaped further cause for concern as to the status of their individual dealings with the bank.

“Bank Of Scotland Ireland have taken this decision apparently without any regard for its workers or to those it provides services through its now closed retail branch.

“For the sake of its customers, including those in my own constituency in Midleton, I am calling on Bank Of Scotland Ireland to make clear its intentions for the future of existing accounts. It is now their responsibility to open communication with their clients as to what arrangements will be made for a smooth transition of their business,” he said.