Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 December 2014
39. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection her plans to transfer payments from her Department to an electronic system; if she has discussed this proposed change with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47004/14]
View answerIncreasing the level of public service delivery to citizens through electronic channels is a key ingredient in creating a vibrant, modern and competitive Irish economy, offering scope to streamline processes and improve customer service. This objective is bedded into a range of Government initiatives including the Public Sector Reform Plan, e-Government Strategy and the Department’s Payment Strategy. That Strategy aims to facilitate greater use of electronic payments to provide wider payment options to our clients and build levels of financial inclusion, while also continuing to serve those who are more vulnerable in our society.
Last year, the cost of 42.7 million cash payments to clients was almost €73 million gross. By comparison, 37 million payments were issued by EFT at a cost of only €9 million. Reducing levels of cash payments can deliver real savings for Irish taxpayers and benefit welfare clients simultaneously. Efforts are also being progressed to gradually deplete the levels of cheques issued in support of the objectives of the recent e-Day initiative.
The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is fully briefed on the Department’s strategy. While matters relating to An Post are a matter for its Board to consider in consultation with my colleague the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, I was interested to note that An Post is itself making moves in the direction of electronic payments with its recent invitation to the market for electronic payment solutions and allied services. I am very conscious of the important role of post offices which offer financial and other services locally. This Government has consistently stated its commitment to maintaining the post office network in the Programme for Government and I was glad to play my part in that when, following an EU-wide procurement competition, I signed a new contract with An Post last December which is worth in excess of €50 million to it this year.
