DUBLIN, Feb 18 (Reuters) - Media reports that NatWest
may exit the Irish market after a months-long strategic
review of its operations there is a matter of real concern,
Irish Deputy Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said on Thursday.
The Irish Times reported on Wednesday that the NatWest board
was set to decide on Thursday on a proposal to wind down its
operations in the Republic of Ireland. The Financial Times also
reported it was preparing to start a phased withdrawal, citing
sources familiar with its plans.
"It is a matter of real concern and one the government is
taking very seriously and a matter of real concern to Ulster
Bank's customers, its staff and the communities it serves,"
Varadkar told parliament, referring to NatWest's Irish unit.
(Reporting by Padraic Halpin; Editing by Edmund Blair)