Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
418. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Finance if he will review correspondence (details supplied); if he will support this campaign to retain rural services; if his Department has engaged with a bank on this particular issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32762/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the 'Save our Ulster Bank' campaign that the Deputy is referring to and I share the concerns outlined in the correspondence.
I became aware that NatWest is engaged in a strategic review of its operations, including those of its subsidiary, Ulster Bank, thanks to media reports published last month. Following these media reports, officials from my Department contacted Ulster Bank and NatWest.
Last month, I met with representatives of Ulster Bank. I outlined that I expected that staff, customers and other stakeholders would be informed promptly about any decisions being made. In particular, I asked that staff representatives be consulted and kept informed of developments. I also emphasised the importance of Ulster Bank to the Irish financial services market, to the wider economy and to the communities it serves.
Ulster Bank confirmed that the strategic review is ongoing and that no decision has yet been taken. Ulster Bank also confirmed that there is no set timetable for this review and that it is fully aware of the strategically important role that Ulster Bank plays in the provision of financial services to the Irish market.
While I will have further engagement with the bank as the review process continues, I would like to emphasise that I have no role in the review or any commercial decisions arising from it.
