6.2 Government policy on acceptance or facilitation of cash by public bodies
6.2 Government policy on acceptance or facilitation of cash by public bodies
Since 2004, Government Departments and Offices have acted as a catalyst for the modernisation of payment systems, reflecting their key role across the broader economy and interaction with large numbers of the population across a wide range of interactions relation to the provision of goods and services including the payment of salaries, pensions, and social welfare as well as taxation, fines and charges. Steps taken include the migration of remaining paper and cash-based payment processes to electronic alternatives. For example, as recommended by the NPP, on 19 September 2014, “e-Day” was launched. On that day, the public sector discontinued the acceptance of cheques, and the writing of cheques to business users. The purpose of this development was to encourage migration away from cheque usage.[1] The reform of payment systems resulted in the rationalisation of payment processes leading to streamlined back-office functions and greater efficiencies aimed to reduce the burden on the taxpayer and enhance payment security.
The ability to transact in cash remains important to many people across Ireland, particularly those in vulnerable groups, and those who use cash to more easily manage their finances. Following engagement with Government Departments/Offices and public, it is clear that in the majority of cases while digital payment was preferred by those public bodies there are alternative payment methods if and when required including cash.
It is also the case that certain bodies, for example An Post, currently facilitate payment using cash for a number of public services. There are a very small number of areas where only digital payments were accepted. Furthermore, there were cases in 2023 of some public services going ‘cash-less’. While there might be strong audit and control or operational reasons to go ‘cash-less’, it is also important that citizens can continue to access services in a flexible and open manner. This may include having a range of payment options. With this in mind, the Minister wrote to Government colleagues in September 2023 asking them to instruct public bodies under their remit to maintain cash acceptance, where it exists, until the NPS is finalised in 2024. At that stage, consideration can then be given to the continued acceptance by public bodies of cash in transactions with the public.
Questions
Public bodies have an obligation to act efficiently in their duties to minimise their impact on the taxpayer and provide a high quality services. While doing so they must also provide fair access to public services. Therefore, ensuring a balance between efficiency and access by the public is important.
6.6 What is your view on the levels of acceptance of cash in Ireland by public bodies for public services?
6.7 Have groups or individuals experienced challenges or have been excluded from accessing public services due to the lack of payment methods available?
6.8 What should public bodies consider when offering payment methods for services they provide?
6.9 Should all public services have an obligation to accept or facilitate the acceptance of cash? Or is there a sub-set of essential services that should be obliged to accept cash payments?
[1] Source: e-Day’ – 19 September 2014