Retail NI Slams Roll Out Of ATM Transaction Charges

Retail NI has said a recent study on the rollout of transaction charges for ATMs across the UK should act as a major wake up call for Government.

The study shows that a transaction charge has been imposed on over 1700 cash machines so far this year, with more to be added.

It comes in the wake of fifteen ATM thefts in Northern Ireland so far this year, threatening the ability of independent retailers in rural areas to provide cash machine facilities for local residents.

Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said his organisation completely opposes the "blatantly unfair" transaction charges which "could not have come at a worse time" for members.

"There is now a perfect storm of problems facing our members in relation to ATMs," he explained.

"Our members are facing a relentless campaign of robberies resulting in devastation to their businesses, which in turn are leading to rising insurance premiums. Also, due to no government at Stormont, the rural ATM Rate Relief has also been lost. Now we have the 95p transaction cost.

"All of this will result in our members having no choice but to remove ATMs from their stores which will have a huge impact on rural communities who rely on a local ATM to withdraw cash. The most vulnerable in society will be affected by this

"It is completely unacceptable for any consumer to have to pay 95p every time they use an ATM to withdraw their own cash. This transaction charge will result in less footfall and trade for our members as consumers will go elsewhere to access cash.

"Retail NI will be fighting this unfair transaction charge to ensure independent retailers and consumer get a fair deal."



(JG/CM)