LINK, the UK’s cash machine network provider today welcomes the installation of a free-to-use cash machine in Pomeroy, Northern Ireland. The new ATM is a direct result of LINK’s Financial Inclusion Programme.
LINK’s work with the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, highlighted that consumers in the area had little or no access to free cash withdrawals. As a result Cashzone installed a free ATM at Costcutter on Main Street, Pomeroy (BT70 2QJ). LINK’s Financial Inclusion Programme was set up in 2006 to improve access to free cash in the UK.
Aodhan O’Donnell, Interim Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland commented; “The Consumer Council is delighted to be involved in a project that responds to the needs of people in Pomeroy. Consumers in rural areas often have to travel for miles to get to a free to use cash machine and this can be a real hassle especially for people who don’t drive or have access to a car. People need access to their cash when they want it and not be charged for the privilege. We will continue to work with LINK, banks, cash machine operators and local political representatives to ensure that consumers across Northern Ireland have access to free cash machines”.
John Howells, LINK CEO mentioned; “LINK has a very clear consumer remit and free access to cash features highly on that agenda. We’ve put in place a process that enables us to listen and take action where action is needed to improve customers’ access to cash. This latest cash machine in Pomeroy adds to the growing list of those already introduced across the country as a direct result of the ATM industry pulling together to improve access to cash for consumers.”
Jonathan Simpson Dent, Managing Director of Cardtronics Europe adds; “Providing local and convenient access to cash is a key priority for Cashzone. We hope that this most recent installation will provide an important and valued service to the local community in Pomeroy.”
Cáthal Mallaghan, Sinn Fein local councillor and Chairman of Mid Ulster Council welcomed the news; “People work very hard for their money and in the digital age, most money is paid electronically into bank accounts. In that regard access to your money should be reasonable and shouldn't cost you anything. I'm delighted to have worked with party colleague Francie Molloy MP and the Consumer Council to get a free to use cash machine in Pomeroy village.”
