Communities in south Wicklow are in a state of shock after Bank of Ireland said its branches in Carnew, Tinahely and Rathdrum will close permanently from September. Bank of Ireland announced plans on Monday to close 88 branches across the country as it says in-branches visits have fallen as customers move to digital banking services. The bank's decision to close three branches in the county provoked a backlash from local public representatives who highlighted that these closures will affect communities in rural areas who are struggling to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The three affected branches currently offer self service banking and advice. Staff working at the these branches were informed of the bank's decision on Monday morning. The Bank said there would be no compulsory redundancies and staff can apply for re-deployment or voluntary redundancy.