Resignation of Wilbur L. Ross, Jr as a Director and sale by his connected funds of their remaining shares in Bank of Ireland

The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland (“Bank of Ireland”)

Resignation of Wilbur L. Ross, Jr as a Director and sale by his connected funds of their remaining shares in Bank of Ireland

Bank of Ireland has been notified by Mr Wilbur L. Ross, Jr of his resignation as a Director of Bank of Ireland and the agreement by Mr Ross and certain funds connected with him to sell their remaining shares of c. 1.8 billion units in Bank of Ireland.

The Bank notes, appreciates and understands the comments which Mr Ross has separately made this evening to the media and wire services regarding the rationale for the share placing and his resignation from the Board.

Mr Archie G. Kane, Chairman of the Bank of Ireland Group commented:

“On behalf of the Board I would like to thank Wilbur for his contribution, diligence and commitment as a Board member. Wilbur was instrumental in the success of the 2011 capital raising and, throughout his tenure, we have benefited greatly from his insights”.

ENDS