National Irish Bank has introduced a 24-hour banking service. The move is part of a Europe-wide initiative across National Australia Group, National Irish's parent company.

The service will initially offer six functions. These include balance enquiry, transaction enquiry, funds transfer, bill payment, statement order and cheque book ordering. The bank said a "nominal charge" will apply for bill payments, for any customer who does not have access to free banking. The service will mean an investment of £5 million in National Australia's European operations.