Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am aware, as are all postmasters, that we have making electronic fund transfers for years, whether through interest payments or salaries to An Post staff being paid by electronic transfer through a facility in An Post or the Post Office Savings Bank. Has the Irish Postmasters Union engaged in discussions or negotiations with An Post to ascertain how the role of the Post Office Savings Bank could be expanded to allow for electronic transfers of salaries and social welfare payments? I would prefer customers to continue to claim their social protection payments over the counter using their social services card. The card is photographic identification and allows postmasters to verify the identity, signature and date of birth of the claimant. We can be certain, therefore, that we are paying the correct person the correct payment every week when the person presents. We are unable to facilitate customers who wish to have their funds transferred into an account through electronic transfer. Customers must be given this option if the post office network is to remain viable. Has the Irish Postmasters Union had discussions with An Post as part of an effort to expand its role in this area and ensure post offices remain viable?