Bank decision a victory for rural Ireland

THE Aontú representative for Mayo, Paul Lawless, has welcomed news that AIB has reversed its decision to withdraw cash services from 70 banks in the country.

He described it as 'a victory for the people - especially elderly people and rural communities'.

AIB reversed their earlier decision following a public and political backlash.

Mr. Lawless had launched a petition in respect of the Claremorris branch - it and Ballinrobe were earmarked to go 'cashless'.

He thanked the thousands of people from Mayo and across the country who signed the petition in recent days.

Mr. Lawless commented: “We have forced the hand of government, and Allied Irish Bank. I think the lesson from this is that we need to speak up for ourselves - when we see an issue that effects us, we must stand up to the government and to our local TDs and ensure that our voices and opinions are heard quite clearly.”

He added: “I'm very happy that the decision has been reversed. It would have detrimental for people and businesses in Ballyhaunis, Kiltimagh and Claremorris and the surrounding areas.

“I hope the government and the bank have learned lessons from this - when big decisions are being made the public cannot be ignored. Public consultation is of vital importance. Especially when we consider that the Irish government is a majority shareholder in the bank, and that it was our taxes which bailed them out a decade ago.

“This is a victory for the people of Mayo and for rural Ireland.”