The Basque Government is set to install 38 new ATMs in rural Euskadi to address financial exclusion and ensure the provision of essential services. This initiative responds to a long-standing demand, particularly crucial for the elderly population.
Juan Carlos Medina, the mayor of Salinas de Añana, highlighted the necessity of the new ATM, requesting it include a passbook reader, a vital service for older residents. He stressed that primary services should not be removed based on economic profitability but on their service value.
“"We must not take steps backward; instead, we should maintain and care for what we have. Anything new is welcome, but we must not regress and remove services."
Medina also emphasized the importance of healthcare and education for population retention, calling for accessible medical centers and optimal medical assistance, as well as ensuring children can study close to home without needing to travel to major cities.
Following the inauguration of the first ATM in Arcentales (Bizkaia), new machines are scheduled to be launched before summer in municipalities including Elburgo, Peñacerrada, Arrieta, Ea, Elantxobe, Forua, Abaltzisketa, Albiztur, Ezkio-Itsaso, Hernialde, Leaburu, and Salinas de Añana.
The initiative is part of the Berosi project, which selects municipalities based on three criteria: over 300 inhabitants without a bank branch, being more than eight kilometers from the nearest ATM, or receiving over 100,000 tourists annually. This plan aims to reach over 22,500 people, covering 93% of Basque municipalities.
Amaia Barredo, the Minister of Food, Rural Development, Agriculture, and Fisheries, clarified that not all localities will be covered, but the Basque Government will monitor the situation for potential future expansions. While offices with staff are not planned, ATMs with varying service levels will be installed.
The public tender was awarded to Kutxabank, with a contract valued at 1.15 million euros until 2029.
