EXHIBIT 23





                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
No. 33-55336), pertaining to Republic Bancorp Inc. Tax-Deferred Savings Plan and
Trust of our report dated June 18, 2001 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, 2000.



/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Detroit, Michigan
June 21, 2001