Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 November 2012
242. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the new branch service charges (details supplied) in the banks are discriminating against older persons who are unable to use or avail of these online services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48280/12]
View answerAs Minister for Finance, I have no statutory role in relation to the issues raised by the Deputy. The issues raised are a commercial matter for the banking group concerned. However, I have been informed by the Central Bank that, as part of the group's model for delivering self service and automated arrangements for routine customer transactions, the group carried out a pilot scheme in this regard in a number of branches in June 2012, whereby these services would not be available in the branch. Alternative options such as internet/telephone banking, direct debit payments, lodgment and withdrawals at ATMs were available. The branches which took part in the pilot scheme advised that there were very few issues encountered and little or no adverse customer reaction.The banking group concerned then decided to roll out these changes with effect from 22 October 2012.
Customers were advised a minimum of 30 days in advance of the proposed changes through in-branch posters and leaflets detailing alternative options. All staff received training in advance of the rollout to enable them to deal effectively with customer queries. The decision to migrate these branch services to the alternative options mentioned is a commercial decision made by banking group. The group must ensure that the proposed changes are in line with the National Payments Strategy which states than any move towards electronic banking should not discriminate against older people or persons with disabilities.
