Introduction of cashless branches 'a massive own goal by AIB' says Offaly TD

Offaly TD Carol Nolan has called on AIB Bank to immediately reverse its plan to withdraw ATM, cash withdrawal, and cheque lodging facilities from 70 of its branches, including in Birr and Edenderry.

The bank yesterday announced that the 70 affected branches would be going 'cashless' from this autumn, with the change set to come into force in Birr and Edenderry from September 30.

Deputy Nolan, an Independent TD for Laois / Offaly, claimed the bank's move displayed "utter contempt for rural families and rural businesses," many of whom would soon have to travel "considerable distances" to access basic banking or cash withdrawal services.

"In its statement announcing this shock decision, AIB actually had the gall to state that the rationale behind the move was to ensure that it can continue to provide 'a modern, community-based, sustainable banking service'. Do they take us for absolute fools or what?" said Deputy Nolan.

"This is a ruthless cost-cutting exercise dressed up as actions that are being implemented for the common good.

"I recognise that there will be a new level of collaboration with An Post; but unless An Post intends to drastically revise its opening hours how are people who need cash at, say, 6.15pm going to access it without an ATM?

"How are businesses who close on Saturday and who do not want cash on their premises over the weekend going to lodge their takings if the local post office is closed by lunchtime?

"What I am calling for here is the absolute bare minimum in terms of retention of services. It is simply unacceptable for people in Birr to have to travel out of the county to Roscrea to access cash, or for people in Edenderry to travel to Newbridge for the same service.

"This is a massive own goal for AIB and it will do significant reputational damage if it is not reversed," the TD concluded.