Early preparation by banks and staff training is critical if delays in introducing the euro are to be avoided, according to the European Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs, Pedro Solbes.
The Commissioner was speaking at an event to mark the launch of Ulster Bank's new guide 'Euro banking made easy'. This is the first guide on the banking aspects of the changeover to be published in Ireland and it offers practical advice for both personal and business banking customers.
'It is absolutely essential to pre-test cash management programmes, and in particular, to ensure that cash handling staff are trained to calculate and handle changes in euros as efficiently as possible,' Mr Solbes said.
'Delays will inevitably result of proper training is not put in place. It is particularly important for small and medium size businesses and traders to plan and prepare for the many practical issues which will arise,' he urged.
Among the recommendations listed in the Ulster Bank guide are the use of euro cheque books from September, as a means of becoming familiar with the euro.
The bank also advises the use of euro travellers cheques while holidaying this year. Old national notes of countries visited on holidays should not be brought back home. If they are, they should be exchanged at the bank before the end of the year.
Irish pound cheques should not be issued after December 31 this year, and these cheques should not be accepted after that date.
