Premier Andrew Furey would like to have a chat with Scotiabank about its decision to close eight branches in rural Newfoundland.

The banking giant has confirmed that branches in Grand Bank, Twillingate, Lewisporte, Bonavista, Burgeo, Flowers Cove, Deer Lake and Whitbourne will close. But they did not say when or how many workers will be affected.

Lewisporte Mayor Krista Freake is “tremendously disappointed in the decision” and says the town is going to try to have the bank reconsider the closure.

Furey says he’d like to know the rationale behind the decision, given the impact on so many residents.

“We’ve reached out to Scotiabank to have a discussion about if it’s permanent, if it’s a business move, if this is a strategic move, and looking forward to having those conversations.”

Reaction to the news has been fast and furious in communities where many continue to rely on in-person teller service.

Some will have to drive an hour or more to the nearest branch once the closures take effect.