Rhun presses on Barclays to reconsider Amlwch decision

Ynys Môn AM Rhun ap Iorwerth met senior local and national Barclays managers on Friday (September 8th) to discuss their decision to close the Amlwch branch.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr ap Iorwerth said:

“I clearly wanted them to reconsider their deicion, but it’s obvious that they will not do so. I asked specifically if closure could at least be delayed until a new 24 hours cashpoint service could be provided, and I also asked if closure could be delayed until after Christmas. They have no intention of changing the closing date of November 17th. It is a huge disappointment, and a blow to loyal customers in the Amlwch area and to the town’s residents in general.

“I will continue to press for any measures that can put pressure on, or force banks to cooperate in order to preserve services in rural areas. It’s clear that the move is towards more and more centralisation, and that this will mean the closure of more branches.

“We are facing a crisis in maintaining the vitality of our small towns, and banks seem to be forgetting that it is their customers, even those in rural areas, that help them make their profits.

“I have already raised the matter of small bank closures in questions and debates in the Assembly, and I will seek further opportunities to do so.”