To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any plans he has to work with (i) banks; (ii) Post Offices; and (iii) other stakeholders to facilitate the creation of more banking hubs in East Londonderry.

I held a meeting on 1 May 2024 with senior representatives of the local banks and building societies, LINK and Cash Access UK, where I urged them to maintain access to vital banking services in the North.

I emphasised the importance of quickly rolling out further banking hubs here in the North as it is disappointing that only one banking hub, in Kilkeel, has opened to date. I understand from that meeting there are plans for four new banking hubs to open here. This includes a hub in your constituency in Portrush, where Cash Access UK indicated it is due to open in early 2025.

I will continue to press on the sector to roll out banking hubs at pace. My officials are also engaging with the Consumer Council who collaborate with LINK in identifying further areas that should be considered for a banking hub here.

I intend to hold a further round table discussion in the Autumn to follow up on this matter.