I welcome Bank of Ireland’s reversal of their decision to make some branches completely cashless. The bank confirmed that over 150 branches will revert to full services by the end of the year. This decision by Bank of Ireland has not materialised out of nothing. The dynamic came from the sustained pressure by the communities affected.
As a member of the Finance Committee, I have repeatedly pointed out to bank officials the adverse impacts of ending or limiting cash counter services in branches to customers in rural areas. I have made it clear that the alternatives offered by the banks are inadequate. Occasional mobile banking and online services are no substitute for being able to talk to bank staff. I know that many people have had to make long journeys to access a full menu of services in other branches, costing time and money, particularly to the already stretched SME sector.
I would urge communities that have been affected by the curtailment of services at their local branch to maintain pressure for these services to be restored in all branches. Ballinrobe, Ballyhaunis, Charlestown and Kiltimagh branches have no cash desk facilities while in Belmullet, Claremorris and Swinford the cash counter only operates for two and a half hours in the morning.
Several months ago, when I began raising this issue and asking the banks to restore services, it was thought impossible to change the policies of such large corporations for the sake of a few communities affected. However this recent decision proves that sustained political pressure works.
Even something as simple as explaining to the bank chiefs in Dublin how a cash business in Mayo is impacted by the removal of cash services from the local branch can act as a ‘wake-up call’ that customers’ needs should be to the fore of banking policy. I am calling on the other banks who have cut branch services to take note of this row-back by Bank of Ireland and respect their customers.
