EXHIBIT 23(a)



June 25, 1998


                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
(Form Statement No. 33-55336, No. 33-55304, No. 33-62508, and No. 333-26515
on Form S-8, and 33-61842 on Form S-3) pertaining to Republic Bancorp Inc.
Tax-Deferred Savings Plan and Trust of our report dated June 12, 1998 with
respect to the financial statements and schedules of the Republic Bancorp
Inc. Tax-Deferred Savings Plan and Trust included in this annual report (Form
11-K) for the year ended December 31, 1997.



/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Detroit, Michigan
June 25, 1998










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