asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the representations, if any, made to the British Post Office on behalf of old age pensioners in receipt of British pensions regarding the unacceptable delays presently being encountered despite the ending of the postal strike.

(Dublin South-Central): I am not aware of circumstances which would warrant representations being made by the Department to the British Post Office in this regard.

There are quite a number of cases of this happening and the source of the delay is not attributable to the Post Office here. In those circumstances if a sufficient number of cases were brought to the Minister's attention would he be prepared to consider looking into the matter?

(Dublin South-Central): As the Deputy is aware, we are really only acting as agents for the British pensions. If there is a delay within the British social services it is not very appropriate for us to make representations. But once the pensions reach Ireland we take responsibility.

The delay is arising across the water.

(Dublin South-Central): If the Deputy has specific instances of this, I certainly will make representations; but, as he can see, it is another administration.