LEINSTER, Ireland -- The Irish Bankers Federation (I.B.F.) has announced a major initiative to spread awareness among the public about the full range of banking options, including ATMs, according to a report in the Leinster Leader.
The I.B.F. plans to present a program called InsideOut to community groups across the country. The program will encourage people to use non-branch banking options, such as ATMs, telephone banking, Internet banking and direct debit and credit.
The program, which includes a 20-minute video followed by a question-and-answer session, was piloted in September 2001. A brochure entitled "Banking InsideOut" is also offered to participants.
Tony Keane, national coordinator for the Banking InsideOut program, said, "We have made presentations across the country and are delighted by the audiences' enthusiasm. The level of active participation during the presentations and the audiences' interest in finding out more about laser cards and ATM cards, for example, confirms that people are looking for safe, convenient and economical ways to help them manage their accounts and pay bills, either at home or at their branch."
The Irish banking industry has been criticized by consumer groups for closing bank branches, especially those in rural areas.
