Central Bank of Ireland launches Access to Cash consultation
Executive Summary
The Central Bank of Ireland has launched a public consultation on implementing new **Access to Cash** responsibilities under the Finance (Provision of Access to Cash Infrastructure) Act 2025, which commenced on 30 June 2025. This consultation addresses two critical areas: identifying local deficiencies in cash infrastructure and establishing minimum ATM service standards. The initiative reflects regulatory commitment to ensuring cash remains readily available as payment preferences shift toward digital channels.
What Changed
- The consultation covers two primary regulatory components: 1. Local Deficiency Guidelines The Central Bank will establish procedures for identifying geographical areas where individuals and SMEs face particular difficulties accessing cash, even wher
- Hours of ATM availability
- Cash withdrawal limits
- Banknote denomination stocking requirements
- Maximum ATM unavailability periods
- Signage and information requirements
Suggested Considerations
- *For designated credit institutions:
- Monitor consultation developments and prepare for compliance with minimum cash infrastructure maintenance levels once regulations are finalized
- Prepare to provide quarterly data on ATM numbers, locations, and availability hours
- *For ATM operators:
- Engage with the consultation process to provide feedback on proposed service standards
- Prepare operational procedures to comply with forthcoming ATM service standards (hours, withdrawal limits, denomination stocking, unavailability periods)
Key Dates
Compliance Impact
Urgency: HIGH
Who is Affected
References
AI-generated analysis. May contain errors or omissions — verify with the original CBI source before acting. Full disclaimer.
Summary
The Central Bank of Ireland has today (5 December) launched a public consultation on the implementation of our new Access to Cash responsibilities. Deputy Governor Vasileios Madouros said: “Amid a rapidly evolving payments landscape, the Central Bank of Ireland is committed to making sure that cash continues to be readily available as a means of payment. Today’s consultation is an important step towards the implementation of the Central Bank’s new responsibilities under the Access to Cash leg...