ATMs to close on New Year’s morning

All ATM cash dispensers will shut down early on New Year’s morning to facilitate the change over to the euro currency.

Customers were today advised to withdraw sufficient cash in advance to see them through New Year’s Eve and early New Year’s Day.

All the banks will begin the conversion at 1.30 a.m. on January 1st. The banks hope to resume services on a phased basis after 6 a.m. with the majority expected back in use on January 1st.

At a briefing on its euro changeover plans, Bank of Ireland’s head of euro planning, Mr Michael Watson suggested customers use Laser cards to avoid confusion and delays in the days and weeks immediately after the changeover.

Bank of Ireland today said it will issue 53 million new euro notes worth over €1 billion and 266 million euro coins, valued at €76 million.

Mr Watson added that customers will be able to exchange punts for euros for a period after the February 9th deadline after which retailers will no longer accept the old currency.

Bank of Ireland said it has spent €76 million since 1996 on the euro changeover.