Ireland to have continued access to cash, more ATMs with new Bill

DUBLIN, Ireland: A new legislative measure, the 'Access to Cash Bill,' aims to ensure continued access to cash and increase the number of ATMs, particularly in rural and regional areas.

The bill, which will be approved at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, grants the Central Bank new authority to address issues related to cash accessibility.

The legislation mandates that banks provide ATMs within a five to ten-kilometer radius of regional populations, ensuring that residents in less urbanized areas have adequate access to cash.

This move is in response to growing concerns about the diminishing number of ATMs and cash facilities, especially outside major cities.

Minister for Finance Jack Chambers, speaking to Newstalk, emphasized that the new laws are designed to secure future cash infrastructure for businesses and individuals.

"We currently have strong levels of cash infrastructure in the State, with 99 percent coverage within five to ten kilometers for most people in rural areas," Chambers said. "This bill is about maintaining that baseline infrastructure and preventing significant shortfalls."