Local TD Denis Naughten has been informed by the Jobs Minister that a buyer is still being sought for the UK loan book of MBNA.

In a Dáil response Denis Naughten was informed that “Bank of America continues to look for a buyer for the remainder of the UK Credit Card book but no suitable buyer has been found to date”.

Commenting on the Minister’s response Deputy Naughten said: “It is an uncertain time for staff operating on the UK loan book and every effort must be made to try to provide clarity for staff.

“These jobs are of huge importance not alone to the staff but also to the town of Carrick-on-Shannon and the surrounding area and all efforts must be made to safeguard employment and for the smooth transfer of the UK operation to a new owner.

“I am however assured by Minister Bruton that IDA Ireland remains in contact both locally and at corporate level with both BOA and Apollo/AvantCard to monitor progress and provide assistance, as appropriate, with respect to reconfiguring the Carrick facility.”