Enterprise Minister Unveils New Bank Support Scheme for Consumers

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment Arlene Foster unveiled a new Ulster Bank initiative to support consumers at an event held in the Enniskillen branch of Ulster Bank.

Staff from Fermanagh Citizens Advice Bureau and Citizens Advice Regional Office attended the event and were able to provide a picture of the debt situation in the Enniskillen area and in broader terms across Northern Ireland.

 Ulster Bank announced in January a £300,000 package to support debt advice agencies in Northern Ireland.

 Scott Kennerley who manages the CAB Dealing with Debt service said ‘we welcome any initiative which brings advice and information to the public and commend Ulster Bank for their initiative. They obviously recognise the need for independent, impartial debt advice and their contribution of £300,000 to the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment for the provision for face to face debt advice will ensure that more people will be able to benefit from initiatives such as the Citizens Advice Dealing with Debt Service.

 Debt Advice is a complex area which needs to be adequately funded, especially in the current economic climate. The DETI are to be commended for securing this funding and Citizens Advice would like to see other financial institutions follow suit.’