IBOA finance union seeks clarity over plan to seperate Ulster Bank's operations in the Republic from those in the North
The move coincides with the news that Ulster Bank has appointed former Danske Bank (Northern Ireland) boss, Gerry Mallon as its new chief executive, taking over from Jim Brown, who has held the role for the past four years.
“We are seeking a strong commitment, from RBS, to the need to enhance investment in both entities in order to ensure that they are adequately staffed and resourced to build on the positive opportunities that may arise from separation.”
The union added there is “a unique opportunity to invest not just in technology but even more importantly in staff and resources for both parts of Ulster Bank on the island of Ireland; to reassure customers of its commitment to retain branches; and build on this investment in technology to ensure that the bank continues to be profitable and that both staff and customers benefit.”
The IBOA’s correspondence has been addressed to Les Matheson, RBS’s head of personal and business banking, who yesterday welcomed the appointment of Mr Mallon by saying he will be “invaluable” as the group looks to continue to build “a strong and profitable bank, that is number one for customer service, trust and advocacy across the UK and Ireland”.
The IBOA is also seeking “an early meeting” with Kevin Kingston, Mr Mallon’s newly appointed successor at Danske Bank NI to “confirm his intention to build on foundations established by his predecessor in working with the bank’s staff and union representatives to continue to grow the business, based on principles recently agreed between Danske Bank and IBOA under the auspices of the Labour Relations Agency in Northern Ireland, with a view to securing the success of the institution for customers.”
“We look forward to working with Mr Kingston as the business moves towards a greater autonomy within the Danske Bank Group,” said IBOA general secretary, Larry Broderick.
