Consumer Council release advice after bank closure

THE final customers passed through to the door of the Allied Irish Bank in Omagh last week, marking the end of 150 years of financial trading by the firm and its predecessors in the town.

It means that the impressive building on High Street will now be empty after almost a century of service. The ATM machine at the entrance to the bank also ceased operation on Friday evening.

AIB now intend to put the historic building on the market, and there will be hopes that it can be brought back into use sooner rather than later.

They have said that the building will continue to be maintained until it is sold.

AIB’s Omagh branch is one of eight across the north which earlier this year were announced as being earmarked for closure.

The Consumer Council is urging customers of the AIB in Omagh to now review their banking needs after the closure.

Scott Kennerley, director of Financial and Postal Services at the Consumer Council, said some people still prefer to use cash and rely on face-to-face banking through their local branch.

“Consumers in this area who do not feel comfortable with online or phone banking can continue to visit their nearest Post Office to pay in cash and cheques, withdraw money and check their balance,” he said.

“Basic banking services is something the Post Office provides for all banks in Northern Ireland. Alternatively customers can visit any other Allied Irish Bank Branch or could consider switching their bank account.”