The Opposition People’s National Party is expressing concern over the high number of non-functional Automated Banking Machines (ATM) and the difficulties being experienced the general public in accessing cash to conduct their normal business.

Spokesperson on finance, Julian Robinson, is urging financial institutions to ensure that their ATMs are fully functional and filled with cash as the Christmas celebrations draw closer.

As is customary at this time of the year, Jamaicans increasingly rely on accessing cash from ATMs to facilitate their holiday shopping and festive preparations. But Robinson shared that this process has become difficult due to the high number of non-functional ATMs.

“I get numerous complaints on a daily basis from banking customers who have to travel from location to location, to identify a functioning ATM, often at great inconvenience and cost to them,” said Robinson.

He added that while he understands financial institutions have reduced the amount of ATMs available to the public due to vandalism, the current service level is unacceptable.

Robinson further pointed out that banks have encouraged customers to use non-branch channels and must, therefore, ensure that ATMs are functional.

“I am also calling on the Bank of Jamaica, as the regulatory agency with oversight responsibility for the financial sector, to ensure that these institutions maintain a minimum service level standard,” he said.

Earlier this year, there were numerous reports of robberies and attempted robberies of ATMs across the island. Security guards associated with security company Beryllium Limited were also attacked on multiple occasions while trying to load ATMs.

These incidents have prompted the National Commercial Bank, one of Jamaica’s leading financial institutions, to permanently close some of its ATMs due to security concerns.