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Assembly Finance Minister John O'Dowd has visited Crossmaglen to progress the case for a Banking Hub and explore options for delivering improved banking services for South Armagh.
The ministerial visit saw local businesses, workers and residents outline the impact the loss of banking services has had on the area and the need for a practical, community-based solution.
Newry and Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan, who welcomed the Minister to Crossmaglen, said she was delighted to work together to advance the case for a Banking Hub for South Armagh. "Local businesses, workers and residents were clear about the impact the loss of banking services has had and the need for a practical, community-based solution," Ms Finnegan said.
She said that for rural communities like South Armagh, access to face-to-face banking is not a luxury but essential. "A Banking Hub would support small businesses, protect local jobs, assist older people and those without digital access, and help keep our local economy strong," Ms Finnegan added.
The visit allowed the Minister to see first-hand the challenges facing Crossmaglen and the wider South Armagh area, and to explore the options available to deliver a Banking Hub that works for the community.
