Central Bank consults on cash-access plans
The Central Bank has launched a public consultation on how it will carry out its new responsibilities for ensuring that people have adequate access to cash.
New regulations came into effect last week after the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris signed two orders linked to the Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025, which came into effect on 30 June.
The process launched today (5 December) covers two parts of the new access-to-cash system.
Geographical gaps
The first part of the consultation seeks views on Central Bank guidelines designed to identify geographical areas where there may be difficulties in accessing cash.
The guidelines will set out how the bank will receive notifications, undertake assessments, and make determinations about local deficiencies in cash infrastructure.
The second part of the consultation relates to minimum ATM service standards and notification requirements that the Central Bank is developing for firms operating ATMs.
In 2026, it will publish regulations outlining standards on the hours of ATM availability, cash-withdrawal limits, banknote denomination stocking, maximum ATM unavailability periods, and signage and information requirements.
‘Committed’ on cash
Deputy Governor Vasileios Madouros (pictured) said that, amid a rapidly evolving payments landscape, the Central Bank was committed to making sure that cash continued to be readily available as a means of payment.
“We want to hear a wide range of views, so that we can implement these provisions in an effective, balanced, and proportionate manner,” he stated.
The consultation period will run from 5 December until 4 March 2026.