The closure of eight Bank of Ireland branches in Northern Ireland has been opposed by the Financial Services Union (FSU).

Writing to senior Northern Irish politicians, including First minister Arlene Foster and Deputy First minister Martin McGuinness, FSU secretary general Larry Broderick warned that the closures would have "serious implications" for the North's economy.

He said:

"The FSU is keen to engage with elected representatives regarding its campaign to challenge the decision by the Bank of Ireland, which will have implications for the wider Northern Ireland economy."

Broderick wants increased engagement and a "strategic discussion" to take place to ensure other banks don't follow suit.

The closures were announced last week, threatening up to 54 jobs.

The bank said that the volume of business at the branches was "insufficient to sustain them in the long-term."

It will continue to run 28 locations in the North.