Mr. Jim Waldron:

There are various costs associated with the machines. We have done some deals with companies providing the machines for free but the transactions cost between 2.7% and 4.8%. Every fare paid through a cash machine could mean a loss of approximately 4.8%. The point should have been included in last year's fare review that fares should be increased in order for us to go completely cashless. There is a set-up charge and transaction fee that drivers should not have to pay. The NTA must address this fairly quickly so all drivers can transfer. Drivers have transferred to a contactless system for their own health and welfare, as well as their customers' welfare, but they should not have to pay for it.