The Central Bank of Ireland launched a public consultation on how it will implement its new responsibilities under the Access to Cash legislation, focusing on procedures for identifying local shortcomings in cash infrastructure and a forthcoming framework for ATM service standards. The consultation proposes guidelines for how the Central Bank will receive notifications, assess conditions and determine whether “local deficiencies” exist in particular geographic areas where access to cash may be difficult even if broader criteria are met. It also seeks views on minimum ATM service standards and notification requirements for firms operating ATMs, ahead of regulations due in 2026 covering hours of availability, cash withdrawal limits, banknote denomination stocking, maximum ATM unavailability periods, and signage and information requirements, alongside obligations to notify the Central Bank and the public of intended business changes. The consultation runs from 5 December 2025 to 4 March 2026. Additional engagement with consumers, people with disabilities, older people and small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors, is planned for the first three months of 2026.
Central Bank of Ireland 2025-12-05
Central Bank of Ireland launches consultation on implementing Access to Cash duties and minimum ATM service standards
The Central Bank of Ireland has initiated a public consultation on implementing its new responsibilities under the Access to Cash legislation. The consultation addresses procedures for identifying local deficiencies in cash infrastructure and proposes guidelines for ATM service standards, including notification requirements and operational criteria. Feedback is sought on these proposals ahead of regulations set for 2026.