Dickson Speaks Out on Bank Branch Closures

East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, has spoken out about bank branch closures which have hit local communities across Northern Ireland.

Mr Dickson said: “Back in May, Ulster Bank announced it would be closing nine bank branches, including the Larne branch. This announcement followed a similar announcement earlier in the year from Danske Bank.

“Whilst many of us are now comfortable with online and mobile banking, there is still a large number of people in our society – especially the vulnerable and elderly – who rely on the help and assistance offered at physical banks.”

Mr Dickson continued: “Out of concern for these people, I wrote a joint letter to the Treasury with Danny Donnelly MLA, emphasising how these closures will negatively affect groups within our community.

“The Treasury, having taken its time in responding to our letter, have stated that banks must make commercially viable decisions after careful consideration of all the circumstances.

“Whilst I accept this, and appreciate the banks in question have guaranteed alternative access routes to banking services, I am not wholly satisfied with the Treasury’s response and I think it a great shame to lose so many local branches from our long-suffering high streets.”

Mr Dickson concluded by saying: “Support for those that need it is available, and if you are struggling, please contact my office who can sign-post you in the right direction.”

Alternative options to access everyday banking services is available via telephone banking, through digital means such as mobile or online banking, and also via the Post Office.