Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny commented on the demise of local business due the financial crisis as he officially launched a Build A Bank project in St Gerald’s College, Castlebar last Friday.
The boys’ secondary school students are partaking in a national AIB sponsored initiative which allows transition or fifth year students to run their own school bank. TY student, Alan Devaney, manager of the student bank, outlined the premises on which the scheme is operated— where students can save, use phone and internet banking, offer customer service, and maintain accurate financial records.
Dep Kenny commended the service which will allow students to become au fait with the banking industry, however, Dep Kenny also referred to the current disarray in the banking industry in the country — the effect of which can be seen in their own town of Castlebar and also warned them that if they become directors of a bank to avoid taking out million loans.
This year’s AIB Build a Bank Challenge will culminate in each participating school competing at a regional final with other schools in their region in March and if successful will advance to a national final.
