The provision of ATMs in Ireland is “quite sparse” compared to our European counterparts, according to an Independent TD.
Mattie McGrath said it’s important to remind people that “cash is king” and access to it must be safeguarded into the future.
It comes as the Access to Cash Bill was brought before Cabinet today, which will grant the Central Bank new powers to address issues with cash access, particularly in rural areas.
On The Hard Shoulder, Deputy McGrath said the bill doesn’t go far enough for his Rural Independent Group of TDs.
“We will be scrutinising it carefully and putting down amendments to strengthen the use of cash for any transaction, no matter where you are,” he said.
“There is also the situation regarding the availability of ATMs which, in comparison to other countries, is quite sparse in Ireland.
“A big issue is that the machines are there but most times you go to them, there’s no cash in them, they’re not working.
“Even outside bank outlets, they can be empty for a bank holiday weekend, and nobody is able to get cash out of them.”
ATM availability
The Tipperary TD called for more action on improving ATM availability.
“Whether it’s a lack of maintenance from a private company or a bank, it’s not an acceptable situation,” he said.
“They’re spread far more densely in many other comparable countries, but here in Ireland, banks have gotten away with blue murder.
“They’ve removed branches and they’ve removed access to cash away from the people.”
An ATM in use.Deputy McGrath said private companies involved in the distribution of cash should think of the public when making decisions.
“They have responsibilities on top of just making a profit,” he said.
“We see it more and more with big companies; the banks are trying to get away from providing services, even counter services.
“We can’t just remove the system and the availability of cash to people.
“Branch owners must be compelled by this legislation to have a proper service; there’s no point in just having a token service.”
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Main image: Independent Mattie McGrath speaking to reporters outside Leinster House, 26-4-22. Image: Sam Boal /Rollingnews.ie
