Around 11 of the country's largest credit unions are getting on board with a scheme to offer customers debit cards.

The Irish Independent says they'll be on offer to as many as 250-thousand people, in a move that will shake up the current accounts sector.

Credit Unions have traditionally kept hold of customers with savings accounts and small loans - but are now set to challenge a commercial banks' stronghold.

It's reported this morning that 11 of Ireland's largest credit unions are set to offer debit cards to their customers - starting with a pilot scheme in Tullamore, Co Offaly.

By the end of 2015, it's expected that as many as 250-thousand customers will be signed up to the service.

Fintan Ryan - head of the group of 11 Credit Unions involved in the scheme - says pricing has yet to be set; but says it will be competitive and allow participating branches to compete 'on an equal footing' with banks.

It's understood the move has been given the go-ahead to allow regional credit unions to target bank customers who've seen fees increase and local branches close in recent years.