Bank of Ireland has decided to temporarily close 101 branches due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The closures represent nearly 40% of the bank’s branch network.
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In a statement, the bank noted that 161 branches across the country will remain open, of which 148 are full-service locations. The remaining 13 locations are Advice and Self Service branches.
The Irish bank also noted that all branches will continue to provide an external ATM cash withdrawal service.
Retail Ireland CEO Gavin Kelly said: “We’re constantly reviewing our operations to ensure we are providing the right supports for customers through this challenging period.
“These changes help us to respond to the most pressing needs of our customers right now – that’s support in managing the impact of coronavirus on their personal finances and on their businesses.
“These changes also refocus our branch network to our larger locations, which will help us support social distancing. This is extremely important for our customers and colleagues, whose safety and wellbeing is our priority. “
All branches, which will continue to operate, will provide priority services to the customers above 65.
Furthermore, it will redirect staff from the closed branches to larger locations to support its operations.
Bank of Ireland has also taken a series of Covid-19 measures to support its individual and business customers. It includes relaxing mortgage and loan payment rules and providing businesses with emergency working capital.
Notably, the number of Covid-19 cases in Ireland have crossed 1,100. Globally, the figure stands at 382,000.
