Mr. Philip Hamell, Chairperson of the Euro Changeover Board of Ireland
predicted today, (Wednesday 3rd January 2002), that the majority of cash
transactions will be in euro by next Sunday.
"Reports indicate that, overall, about a third of all cash transactions
were in euro yesterday. Indeed, in some Dublin pubs and shops almost all of the
transactions were in euro. As confidence in the changeover grows and more and
more people get euro notes and coins, we believe that we are well on the way to
exceeding our target of having the bulk of transactions in euro by the end of
the first two weeks after €-day," he said.
With more and more people carrying out their first transactions in euro
yesterday, the banks reported an increase of almost 20% in withdrawals from ATM
machines throughout the country.
"Retail outlets and public transport operators reported only a slight
increase in queues throughout the day and many provided extra personnel to
facilitate the extra traffic. We suggest that, in order to avoid queues at
banks, people can get euro by simply carrying out their day-to-day business in
the normal way. The retailers, who are proving to be very well prepared for the
changeover, are taking Irish notes and coins and giving euro in change," he
said.
The Central Bank have advised people to take some time to check their new
euro notes and to get familiar with the colours and sizes.
"We ask that people use one currency only when paying for an item,
rather than offering a mix of euro and Irish pounds. Be patient and allow a
little extra time when purchasing goods and services as we all get used to the
new currency. Also remember to use the euro coins from your starter packs,"
Mr. Hamell said.
For further information on the changeover, consult your euro changeover
Handbook. Information is also available on the Board's website www.euro.ie
or from its LoCall number 1890 20 10 50 (Fax number 6396203).
