‘Drink link’ firm denies extra charges for service

THE company that provided the controversial “drink link” in a Kerry pub has said it’s providing the service at no extra charge — for now.

Mark Roden, managing director of Easycash, said the company was bound by legislation, through its agreement with PermanentTSB, not to charge extra for the cost of using the ATM.

Mr Roden, whose company has installed around 50 machines in retail premises across the country, said he was disappointed by the response of some councillors in Killarney, who claim it encourages youths to drink more. Councillors will meet next Tuesday to discuss what action they can take. Fianna Fáil Cllr Sheila Dickson said: “It’s outrageous to have a cash machine in this environment.”

John Bowler, the owner of McSorley’s bar, defended the installation of the machine.

He said it allowed customers, particularly women, to withdraw money in safety.

Mr Boden, who said he did not believe the machines in any way encourage more drinking among the young, agreed: “One of the principle benefits that we have found is that there are people who enjoy using them, such as women who do not want to queue on an open street.”

He said his company’s turnover came from agreements between the three parties, Easycash, PermanentTSB and the retailer.

He said that there were charges for the service in other countries, such as the US and Britain, and the company would look at other charges in the future.

Spokesman for the Money and Budgeting Advice Service (MABS), an arm if the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs, Liam Edwards said he found it hard to accept that it can be economically viable for an independent operator to provide the service at the same price as a bank.

“In rural areas I would be worried the only ATM would be provided by an independent operator in a pub. I presume the Director of Consumer Affairs is watching this to see the charges will not go over the top.”