There has been a strong welcome in Kerry to AIB’s U-turn on its decision to make five branches in the county cashless facilities.
Education Minister and Kerry TD, Norma Foley, said she “wholeheartedly welcomes” the announcement that the financial institution will not proceed with cashless banking in 70 branches.
“It is absolutely the right decision. This is positive news for so many people, businesses and communities that depend on banks across the country,” she said.
The Kerry Mental Health Association also welcomed AIB’s reversal of its decision to end cash service.
The charity has nine branches in Kerry, five of which serve towns that AIB had listed to be downgraded – Dingle, Kenmare, Killorglin, Caherciveen and Kenmare – as well as Abbeyfeale which also serves many people in Kerry.
The general manager of Kerry Mental Health Association, John Drummey, said measures must now be put in place to ensure that there is no further erosion of bank services in Kerry.
“The mental wellbeing of people in rural parts of the county has been tested enough over recent years due to Covid, inflation, and the continuing growth of rural isolation,” he said.
“These issues are putting pressure on the already stretched mental health services. The government must stay awake at the wheel to prevent similar situations from arising in the future.”
The Kerry Mental Health Association supports people with mental health challenges, their families and carers in Kerry and provides accommodation for people with mental health challenges.
Killarney’s best loved news and advertising service. Call 087-2229761 or email news@killarneytoday.com
