Calls for assistance for MBNA workers in Co Leitrim

Business people in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim are calling on the Government and IDA to find alternative financial companies to replace MBNA which is closing with the loss of 160 jobs.

The company, which is a subsidiary of Bank of America, is moving its call centre to the UK at the end of November.

Businessman - and former TD and Senator - Gerry Reynolds says it is a setback for the town, and the government needs to prioritise the area for future investment.

He said: "I would basically call on the government to become involved immediately and the IDA to provide a service that would put in a financial services company itno the MBNA premises.

"There are still 260 people employed in that sector here in Carrick-on-Shannon," he added.