Decision on security measures delays ATM replacement

By Brónagh Murphy

Following the ATM robbery from the Bank of Ireland in Crossmaglen last weekend, the bank has moved to allay fears that the future of the service in the town may be in doubt.

Branch Manager, John Rocks, confirmed that the cash machine will be re-fitted ‘some time in the future’ but was unable to provide a specific timeframe for when this would happen.

Mr Rocks says bank officials are examining a range of security measures aimed at preventing this type of attack from occurring again and such measures need to be in place before the ATM is replaced.

“The bank has a lot of decisions to make but the only decision that has been made at this time is that the machine will definitely be refitted,” Mr Rocks said.

“We are looking at all options at the moment to try and protect it for future use.  We want to try and prevent this type of attack from happening again so that the bank’s customers and the community are not at a disadvantage,” he added.

However, Mr Rocks conceded that it may be some time before these decisions are reached.

“There could be a delay in the machine going in because we have to make sure we have the appropriate security measures in place,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sinn Féin councillor for the area, Terry Hearty, has called on Bank of Ireland to give a definitive answer as to when the ATM service will resume.

“The community has been robbed of a much used and vital service. Many people in this area are unable to travel long distances to access their money as they do not have the transport to do so,” Councillor Hearty said.

“I have asked the bank to ensure that the cash machine is replaced as soon as possible. They must also let their customers and those who use the ATM know when they plan to return this service.

“The criminals responsible must not be allowed to inflict this inconvenience on our community.  Anyone with any information which could help bring an end to these crimes should come forward immediately.”