Banking access in rural communities
Amid congratulations to Donegal and condolences to Mayo, Jimmy Harte warns that bank closures and the transfer of services to post offices could leave villages without cash access.
Before I call for a debate, I must commiserate with the Cathaoirleach's countymen, the Mayomen, who fought gallantly on Sunday but who, unfortunately-----
Comment on this
The better team won. I congratulate Mr. Jim McGuinness, the Donegal football team and county board on such a magnificent occasion, which will be remembered by Donegal people and others throughout the country for generations.
Comment on this
I am sure Senator Ó Domhnaill and I agree on one matter today, namely, the performance of the Donegal team. I commiserate with the Mayo team.
Comment on this
What happened in Mayo on Sunday? I wish everybody in Donegal a good celebration. This evening, I am heading to Donegal to welcome the cup to Letterkenny.
On the call for the Minister for Finance to address the House on the banking industry, I know that many have questioned what will occur when banks pass over banking responsibilities to post offices. People will not be able to take money out of post offices if there is no ATM in their town or village. This will be a problem when more banks close down, especially in small villages. The Minister should address this problem through the banks. We should have a representative from the banks present at some stage or obtain clarification. It will be a problem if people are not able to withdraw money. They will only be able to lodge money at their post office. Their only choice will be to go to a shop and get cash back, which does not always work. This problem faces many elderly people and those who do not have access to an ATM.