Calls have been made for the removal of the first cash-dispensing machine to be installed in a pub amid concerns that it will lead to an increase in youth drinking.
The ATM, which was installed before Christmas in McSorleys pub and nightclub in Killarney, Co Kerry, was described as a "Drink Link" in an advertisement in a local newspaper.
Town councillors in Killarney yesterday demanded the removal of the ATM, describing it as "exploititave" and "a target for the vulnerable".
Mr Shane Coffey, the regional manager of Easycash Ltd, which installed the machine, confirmed that the company was doing a "test run" on ATMs in pubs to gauge reaction. He said that the cash-dispenser in McSorleys had been a "complete success" and had received a lot of use.
However, Mr Coffey emphasised that no decision had been taken on whether ATMs would be installed in other pubs in the Republic.
The proprietor of McSorleys, Mr John Bowler, said that the ATM had been installed to facilitate customers.
Cllr Sheila Dickson said it was "outrageous" to install a cash machine in a place where young adults were drinking.
"We have a culture in Ireland where people drink to excess. It has gone beyond control. I think it is outrageous to install a cash machine in this kind of environment," she added.
Cllr Donal Grady described the installation of the ATM as another ploy to encourage young people to spend their money on drink.
Mr Bowler said that he regretted describing the machine in the Kerry Advertiser newspaper as a "Drink Link". However, he insisted that he would not be removing it from the foyer of his premises.
He pointed out that people who found that they needed money from an ATM had previously had to leave the pub and walk to the end of another street. This was "particularly awkward" for young women.
Mr Bowler rejected claims that the presence of the ATM was an exploitation of young people.
The chief executive of the Vintners' Federation of Ireland, Mr Tadhg O'Sullivan, said that the federation supported the introduction of any new service, such as an ATM, which would be of benefit to customers.