Ballymote needs your support to stop bank cutbacks
Madam Editor,
Ballymote needs the support of the public to stop the closure of our Ballymote Bank branch now. Please take the time to consider how the closure of our local Ballymote Bank branch will impact you, our local community and our town should the bank proceed with their suggested closure. There tends to be no turning back once a closure is executed at local level.
We need to act now to safeguard the needs of the hard-working town and farming communities of Ballymote.
It is not convenient for any customer especially our elderly, those with special needs and those without transport to travel to Sligo for face to face discussion with a member of staff. Internet banking is not convenient or available for many in our rural communities. Connectivity is not as reliable and up to the speed in comparison to large cities etc. This is not a viable option for many in our community. Internet security concerns have troubled the banking sector in recent years. The closure will actually impact all of us personally “our pockets” in the short and long term. Even if you do not personally bank with this branch, please take into consideration how its loss will impact and possible cause the demise of the town as a centre for business.
The domino effect and job losses will impact the local businesses etc. Ballymote could actually cease to be.
The Ballymote branch needs to listen to its customers, also review its current working practices and restrictions to how we access our money which is often not convenient.
The farmers, publicans, shops, students and especially the everyday hard working member of our community have been “loyal” throughout the turbulent Irish economy and its time for the bank to recognised and acknowl- edge the requirement to ensure the bank remains centre of our community.
Please show your support on Friday and turn out to protest against cutbacks in our banks. Also, write to those who can influence the reinstatement of full banking service in Ballymote. Remember your voice and letters matter, you can make a difference. Yours Sincerely,
Ria Hever, Ballymote.