The Finance Minister John O’Dowd has hosted a banking roundtable at Stormont to discuss access to cash.
Speaking after the meeting, Minister O’Dowd said: “I welcomed the opportunity today to bring together a broad range of key stakeholders to discuss the issues and developments most central to accessing cash here.
“I pressed on the sector the importance of maintaining access to cash and essential banking services in our local communities, especially for our most vulnerable citizens who need in-person advice and services, as well as our small businesses and community and voluntary groups.”
The roundtable was attended by organisations from the banking and finance industry, trade unions, business bodies and consumer and community representatives. Issues discussed ranged from new Access to Cash rules to banking hubs, community outreach activities and digital inclusion.
The Minister said: “Over the past decade, almost two out of every three traditional bank branches in our communities have closed or are planning to close. That represents a significant change to the social fabric of our towns and villages – particularly for our many rural citizens.
“Following today’s roundtable, my officials will immediately begin drafting a report highlighting the key issues raised by stakeholders. This will be submitted to Treasury and the regulatory authorities seeking action.
“It is important we find local solutions to local issues and continue to work to enact change.”
