Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Fianna Fáil tabled further amendments on welfare dependants and medical card holders, which also were voted down by Fine Gael and the Labour Party.

The Tánaiste might clarify whether it is possible to pay via the post office. I understand that Seán O'Rourke was obliged to clarify this point on the "News at One" radio programme after interviewing the Tánaiste. I believe the Tánaiste inadvertently may have made a mistake by stating that one could do so. Seán O'Rourke stated that lest anyone else be further misled, the Tánaiste may have made a mistake and that one cannot pay via the post office.

Will the Government agree to an extension of the deadline beyond 31 March in order that people be given a reasonable opportunity to pay and that such payment may be facilitated in much easier ways? Such an extension would allow greater information to be disseminated, would outline the choices for payment and would facilitate easier ways of paying.

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