Bank of Ireland says its branches will prioritise older customers and carers at the beginning of the day.

This is to help them avoid busier and more crowded periods during the COVID-19 outbreak.

From Thursday, the bank is offering a priority service for over-65s and carers in its branches between 10.00am and 11.00am, Monday to Friday.

This system will be in place until further notice, it says.

Alternatively, over-65s and carers who are unable to come into a branch can call 1800-946-146 between 9.30am and 4.30pm.

Bank of Ireland says its branches remain open and have implemented measures to protect customers and staff.

This includes safe queuing systems using distancing, queuing ropes and floor marker.

The bank says it may limit the number of customers entering a branch at any one time to ensure compliance with HSE recommendations.

While hygiene and cleaning procedures have been deployed across all its branches and offices.

Bank of Ireland announced measures on Wednesday to help mortgage customers affected by the outbreak.