asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will consider the introduction of a giro system into the Post Office.

(Dublin South-Central): The matter is being considered. However, the issues involved, many of which are outside the purview of my Department, are complex and an early decision is not likely.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary not agree—in view of the proposed change in the social welfare stamp—that it is about time ideas were thought of to generate new business for post offices and that his Department have been dragging their feet in this matter for some considerable time?

(Dublin South-Central): This is a rather complex situation. An examination is being carried out by my Department. I should inform the Deputy that we will first have to establish if there is a demand for this type of service and if it is possible to implement it. The question of whether or not there should be a giro system is a matter for the Department of Finance.

Might I ask the Parliamentary Secretary if he is aware of the fact that his Government gave permission to the banks to take on this work in preference to the post office? Is he aware that it was the banks that were given this business?

(Dublin South-Central): I have not this information in my brief but I do know that the banks established a giro system some years ago.

With the approval of the Minister for Finance.

(Dublin South-Central): As I have already said, an examination is being carried on in the Department.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary not agree there is a prime need now to generate business in the Post Office?

We are breaking new ground now.

That is the purpose of the question.

(Dublin South-Central): I agree there is a problem with regard to the withdrawal of the social welfare stamps but that is under consideration.