A majority of Irish adults are in favour of credit unions joining forces.

Research by Behaviour and Attitudes found 84 per cent are in favour of mergers, and the provision of an enhanced range of products and services.

Over a quarter of those surveyed say they would consider moving to a credit union account for day to day banking if a full range of services were provided.

These include ATM and debit cards, longer opening hours and online banking, according to the research, which was carried out for the Credit Union Restructuring Board.