Public support for cash shown in Government Consultation: MacManus

Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus has said the publication of the submissions made to the Government’s National Payments Strategy consultation shows that public support for cash is strong and must be protected in law. He said the government and EU must listen and that protecting the right to use cash will remain a key issue for him if re-elected to the European Parliament.

MacManus said:

“I welcome the publication of the summary of responses to this important consultation. Along with Pearse Doherty TD I made a submission on behalf of Sinn Féin showing our strong support for the universal acceptance of cash and of the need for access to cash. He said the responses tallied with the overwhelming response to a survey carried out by him.

The summary tells us that: “There was overwhelming support from submitters of universal cash acceptance across society.” On access to cash it states: “It was noted by submitters that access to cash (especially the provision of cashback facilities in retailers) is particularly important for people who find themselves in vulnerable and abusive circumstances. Additionally, it was also noted that cash is a useful tool for people who are budgeting and also that the colour and shape of notes and coins is used by some people with digital and literacy needs. Submitters across the board acknowledged that cash is an important backup in the event of a digital systems failure.”

The public response is clear and backs my work at home and at EU level in supporting the Right to Cash and the right to access cash. Here at home the government needs to listen to the feedback and act to protect access to cash while if re-elected I will carry this message back loud and proud to Brussels where I am a leading negotiator on new laws to protect the right to cash.” ENDS