16 November 2016
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
Sinn Fein TD for East Cork Pat Buckley TD has called for An Post to put in place Electronic Fund payment at local post offices. The system would allow payment of wages and social welfare directly into post office accounts at greater convenience to rural communities. He made his comments as the Dáil debates a motion on the Post office network.
Deputy Buckley said;
“In my own area our postal service is a vital piece of our rural community. Less than two years ago the local post office in my neighbouring village closed and it caused so much inconvenience and hardship for people that had to travel to Midleton to do their day to day business.
“Local post offices are a vital community services and a tool in fighting social isolation. This means we must ensure they are doing everything they can to best serve these communities to maintain their viability.
“Many rural communities have no easy access to a bank but have to use a bank account for payments. This is a great inconvenience and draws business from the post office and small villages.
“Post office account holders would also then be able to set up direct debits for bill paying.
“If An Post could accept these kind of payments directly into post accounts it would be of massive benefit to them and the communities who use their services.
“The Minister and An Post should work together to see this common sense initiative put in place.”
