Proposal to close bank branch is opposed

APRIL 1998

PROPOSALS to close the Allied Irish Bank sub-office in Carlingford and replace it with an ATM lead to great concern among locals and traders.

While the ATM is lobbied for, people in the area don’t want to see the office go as a result of its installation.

However, the bank points out the ATM will provide customers with a round-the-clock cash and account enquiry service, rather than the six hours the sub-office is open.

A petition to keep the bank open has so far gathered 500 signatures.

The sub-office opens on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

In a statement, Carlingford Traders express ‘deep concern with proposals to close the bank in the village and replace it with an automatic teller machine.

‘While the traders welcome a much-needed ATM, it should not be at the expense of a long-standing personal banking service.’

‘Given the tourist nature of business in Carlingford there is a need for the bank, otherwise the nearest one is in Newry or Dundalk,’ says Frank O’Brien, acting secretary.

Mary Callan, St Oliver’s Park, is one of the people behind the petition.

‘It would be good to have an ATM, but we also need the bank.’

She also references the amount of customers who use the bank, especially factories on Thursdays.

Aidan O’Mahony, manager AIB, Dundalk, explains that following a review of its existing Carlingford service, together with strong representations by customers and local bodies, the bank intends replacing the sub-office with an ATM.

‘ The details regarding location and date of installation are not yet established.

‘AIB believe this will be a significant enhancement of our service and will be a key factor in the further development of the area,’ Mr O’Mahony adds.