Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was pleased to announce a few weeks ago that jobseeker's payments will return to the post offices in line with the easing of the Covid-19 restrictions. The changes will apply initially to all new jobseeker applications before being extended to other jobseekers over the coming months. When the public health restrictions were introduced in 2020 people in receipt of social welfare were given the option of being paid into a bank account. This was an exceptional measure to help reduce the spread of the virus and ensure people could comply with social distancing guidelines. I and my officials have been in discussions with An Post and the Irish Postmasters' Union. This move will have benefits for both my Department and the post office network because we will have more people going into post offices.

We are all aware of the challenges facing post offices. I recognise the wonderful work they did during the pandemic because their doors were open all the time. Many postmistresses and postmasters went beyond the call of duty in delivering food and groceries to families and older people who were not able to come into shops for whatever reason. I acknowledge the role they played in their communities. All members have been asking how we can support our post offices and we have discussed the matter at length on many occasions. I was delighted, therefore, that we were able to introduce this measure. I also thank members for the support they have given in helping me to do that.