Support for the post office network
Michael Healy-Rae asks whether Government commitments to support post offices are being broken because pensioners are being encouraged to use bank payments. The Chair rules the matter outside the Order of Business, with no substantive Taoiseach reply.
Previously on the Order of Business the Taoiseach gave a commitment that the Government would support the post office network. Last night the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Joan Burton, confirmed that her Department had sent thousands of letters inviting people in receipt of the State pension to have payments made directly into their bank accounts, rather than at post offices.
Comment on this
It is not at all simple. The purpose of the Order of Business is to discuss promised legislation. If the Deputy submits a request for the Topical Issue debate, I will consider it.
Comment on this
The Taoiseach gave a commitment and I want to know if the Government is breaking it. He promised in this House-----
Comment on this
The Deputy is inviting the Taoiseach to break the rules of the House, which he is not allowed to do.
Comment on this
The Government made a commitment in its programme for Government. Will the Taoiseach indicate what his position is on post offices?
Comment on this
The Deputy's father was a member of a Government which closed down hundreds of post offices.