Ms Jane Howard:

As part of the transactions we have agreed with AIB and PTSB, we are looking to protect hundreds of jobs, with 282 going to AIB and approximately 450 going to PTSB. This is a very important part of the reason we did the transaction with these two banks. In terms of where we are today, we have recruited additional people to support our customers. We have no issues with being able to meet the demands of our customers.

We are increasing our resources. Another very important dimension in our case is that we have upskilled people so they can help our customers, whether they come into the branch or call us. We can guide those customers who may want to transfer or open a new bank account online. As I said earlier, and I do not know whether the Deputy was there, with effect from next week we will have representatives of other banks and credit unions in our premises who will be able to support customers with opening an account. This is another very important step forward in supporting our customers.