First Trust Bank caters for euro’s arrival in Ireland

First Trust Bank have announced the installation of cash point services in two of Northern Ireland’s border towns that will be the first to dispense euro notes.

When the euro comes into circulation in January 2002, customers using the First Trust cash point in Hill Street in Newry, County Down and Meadowbank branch, County Londonderry will be able to access euro notes without having to visit Foreign Exchange counters.

The new service also allows First Trust Bank customers living in, or travelling through, Newry and Londonderry on their way to the Republic of Ireland to benefit from the convenience of a 24 hour, year round access to Irish Punts, euro notes, and sterling.

Newry Branch Manager, James McGrath said: “I am delighted that our branch was the first in the First Trust branch network to offer this dual currency service to our customers, the local community and visitors, and that First Trust Bank will be one of the first banks in Northern Ireland to dispense euro notes once the Punt has been phased out.”

Sean O’Kane, Senior Manager, Meadowbank branch added: “It’s great that we can now offer customers this facility giving them greater access to their money outside working hours, however we are still available during opening hours to offer help and advice to our customers on all their banking needs.”

Kieran Bennett, First Trust’s Head of Retail Banking said that the new service consolidates First Trust’s position as a customer focussed and pioneering bank: He added: “Customer satisfaction and meeting the changing needs of our customers has always been of paramount importance to First Trust, which is why we are investing heavily in the branch network and the services we provide.” (AMcE)