asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that there was a shortage of money to pay all the children's allowances at Moynalty and Mullagh post offices, County Meath for the past two months and also, on one occasion, for the payment of unemployment assistance; the reason why this situation was allowed to develop; and the steps taken to prevent a recurrence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath Social Welfare Payments.
53.
Mr. R. Burke
I am informed that on a few days in March and April the sub-post offices mentioned had insufficient funds to meet all the social welfare payments claimed on the first date when these became payable. This was due to under-estimation of cash requirements to meet the demand on those particular days. All outstanding allowances were paid within a couple of days. Arrangements have been made to ensure that adequate funds will be available to meet such payments in future.
How can the Minister say that more was requested than anticipated because the same number of people collect their children's allowances there each month? Weekly unemployment assistance is also the same.
Mr. R. Burke
While the number of persons may be the same the amount of money they draw may not be. The problem arose because different amounts were drawn in different months.
This is one of the depressed areas in Meath and I do not accept that the authorities did not know what amount of money was required. The Minister should ensure that there will be adequate money at this office to meet those payments.
Mr. R. Burke
I can give the Deputy an assurance that the matter will be rectified so that in future delays will not occur.