Kerry TDs have welcomed the u-turn made by AIB on its decision to make 70 branches cashless.
From September 30th, AIB branches in Castleisland, Cahersiveen, Dingle, Kenmare and Killorglin were all due to become cashless, as well as the Abbeyfeale branch.
In a statement, the bank says it recognises the unease that it caused.
Protests across the county were scheduled over the next week in reaction to the AIB’s decision to go cashless in its rural branches.
However, those due to take part can now stand down as the bank has reversed its decision, citing the customer and public unease surrounding it.
Independent TD Danny Healy-Rae travelled to AIB headquarters this morning, with other members of the Rural Independent Group, and met with senior management to highlight the concerns in rural areas.
He says it’s positive to know AIB listened to the public:
Earlier, Deputy Government Chief Whip and Kerry Fine Gael TD Brendan Griffin criticised the bank for its planned cash withdrawals, saying it showed despicable disregard for its customers.
He says today’s announcement is welcome news for customers in Kerry.
Minister for Education and Kerry Fianna Fáil TD Norma Foley also welcomes the announcement, saying it's the right decision and positive news for so many people, businesses and communities that depend on banks across the country.
Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae also welcomes the U-turn; he said he'd called on AIB to reverse their original announcement, and had previously called on the Taoiseach and the Minister for Finance to intervene with AIB.
Sinn Féin TD Pa Daly says he's glad AIB has changed its position. He says a future of banking review in Ireland is urgently needed and must include close examination of local banking services and the role of credit unions so that customers are not subjected to unacceptable stress like this again.
He says the Government had been caught on the hop by AIB's original decision.
