Vol. 531 No. 4
131 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to difficulties experienced by insured persons seeking optical or dental benefits, with particular reference to semi-State organisations; if a difficulty has arisen in relation to the crediting of the necessary contributions which have already been deducted and returned by the employers; if he will take steps to regularise the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6075/01]
Deputy Durkan previously brought to my attention a delay which had occurred in updating the PRSI contributions of employees in three associated companies. He explained that the delay caused difficulties for the employees in question in obtaining optical and dental benefit.
In my reply to Question No. 77 on 8 February, I explained that I had been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the employers which the Deputy referred to had been late in filing the relevant return due to software difficulties with a particular payroll system. As soon as the information was received in Revenue it was processed and the employee records updated. I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that there has been liaison between Revenue and the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs regarding this matter.
If the Deputy is aware of any other employees who have encountered similar difficulties, perhaps he could notify the Revenue Commissioners accordingly.
