Farrell calls on Moate residents to report ATM deficiency
Fine Gael councillor Tom Farrell has called on the Moate community to make their case for better ATM services in the town by reporting cash access issues to the Central Bank of Ireland.
It comes as the Central Bank launched a new online form where members of the public can report areas they believe do not have enough ATM or cash services.
Cllr Farrell is encouraging as many people as possible to complete the form and highlight the current situation in Moate.
“Although the town has two ATMs, one in the post office and another in SuperValu, both are only available during opening hours,” he said.
“Moate has no 24-hour ATM and neither machine allows people or businesses to lodge cash. That’s a real problem for local businesses and for anyone who needs to lodge cash without travelling to another town.
“If you need to withdraw cash in the evening or early in the morning, you’re out of luck, and this has been the case since 2021 when our Bank of Ireland branch closed," Cllr Farrell said.
Cllr Farrell said this is an opportunity for the local community to make its voice heard.
“I have been raising the issue of cash access in the community of Moate for a long time, both with Finance Minister Simon Harris and at meetings of Westmeath County Council.
“The Central Bank is now asking people to point out where cash services are falling short and I believe Moate is a clear example where this is the case.
“This is our opportunity to show that Moate is missing important services. If enough people take a couple of minutes to fill out the form, it will help show the Central Bank that this is a genuine issue affecting our town.”
“I would encourage residents, community groups and local businesses to complete the form and let the Central Bank know that Moate needs a 24-hour ATM and cash deposit facilities," Cllr Farrell added.
Cllr Farrell said he will continue to press the case with the Government and through Westmeath County Council until better cash services are provided for the town.
Here is the link to the form to be completed by concerned residents.
https://centralbankofireland.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cZy4tHjEKP3VjYG