Fears for 750 Irish MBNA jobs

There are fears for around 750 jobs at MBNA in Carrick On Shannon after the firm's parent company Bank of America announced it was exiting the international credit card business.

MBNA is one of the largest employers in Co Leitrim.

Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton has written to Bank of American seeking clarity on its plans and what affect it will have on its Irish operations.

The Minister has also asked the IDA to work closely with the company to help them find a buyer for the business as a going concern.

Spokesperson for Bank of America Jerry Dubrowski said that, as yet, no buyer had been found, but that options were being explored to develop "alternatives" for the Irish and UK businesses, which between them emply about 4,000 people.

Carrick on Shannon Chamber president Gerry Faughnan said: "Bank of America have been a valued employer and investor in the region over many years. They will be missed.

"However the company leaves behind a substantial, skilled, cost effective and diverse work force that is ready and willing to work with a new investor."