Ireland’s new Minister for Finance, Simon Harris, is set to formally sign the Access to Cash legislation, ensuring that the majority of the population will remain within 10 kilometres of an ATM or cash service point such as banks or post offices. The measure, passed by the Oireachtas earlier this year, is designed to protect communities from being cut off from essential financial services amid the rapid shift toward digital payments.
Safeguarding Cash Access
The Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025 establishes clear criteria for the availability of ATMs and cash services nationwide. It also sets minimum thresholds for the number of ATMs per 100,000 people and introduces restrictions on withdrawal fees, with caps on charges to prevent excessive costs for consumers.
The legislation responds to growing concerns that rural communities, in particular, have been left behind following widespread bank branch closures and reduced cash facilities. Harris described the law as a “guarantee of fairness and accessibility,” ensuring that cash remains a viable option for households and businesses.
Rural Impact
Advocates argue the law is long overdue. Independent TD Mattie McGrath welcomed the move but noted that many towns have already lost their banking services, forcing residents to travel long distances for cash. The new rules are expected to significantly benefit rural Ireland, where reliance on cash remains higher than in urban centres.
Balancing Digital and Cash Economies
While Ireland continues to embrace digital payments, policymakers stress that cash remains vital for older citizens, small businesses, and vulnerable groups. The Central Bank has been tasked with monitoring compliance and identifying gaps in coverage, ensuring that financial institutions meet the new standards.
Outlook
The signing of the Access to Cash legislation marks one of Harris’s first major acts as Finance Minister and signals a commitment to financial inclusion. As the law comes into force this week, Ireland positions itself as one of the few European countries to enshrine a legal right to cash access, balancing innovation with social equity.
Sources: RTÉ · The Journal · Newstalk · Highland Radio · Live95FM
