The Margin was interested to learn that AIB is taking steps to seriously address the issue of sexual equality.

For years, female employees of the bank wore uniforms while their male colleagues chose their own attire.

But AIB has decided it is no longer fair to discriminate. Against the men.

So it is taking a path already trodden by EBS and Bank of Ireland and introducing a male corporate wardrobe. And despite the widespread association of bankers with grey suits, navy is the colour of choice.

The AIB outfits will be made available free of charge and will include two suits, one a plain navy, the other with a wine-coloured stripe, five shirts, two ties and a belt. The shirts come in three shades - cream, blue and pink - while the ties are patterned with a navy background.

Some 2,000 male employees in the retail banking operation, from junior management down, will wear the uniform.

The bank is currently taking measurements from staff and hopes to introduce the wardrobe early next year.