asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that currency in the form of 1916 commemoration coins is being paid out to social welfare recipients; and that recipients are encountering difficulties in their efforts to utilise this currency; and if he proposes to take any action in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - 1916 Commemoration Coins.
6.
Mr. O'Leary
The ten shilling coin has been issued at the Dublin employment exchanges since 12 May, 1966.
I understand that there have been a few complaints at one employment exchange that shopkeepers had refused to accept the ten shilling coins and in these cases payment of unemployment benefit and unemployment assistance was made in other coins. The ten shilling coin is legal tender for amounts up to £5.
Mr. O'Leary
I am sure the Minister will sympathise with the plight of old age pensioners and social welfare recipients who need this cash immediately they get it. They are encountering real difficulty in cashing these coins. I wonder would employment exchanges issue some little note? I agree the coin is legal tender but many shopkeepers will not accept it as such.
In the specific instances mentioned, the employment exchange issued other coins. Generally speaking, I have made a number of statements and so has the Central Bank to the effect that these 10/- pieces are legal tender and there should be no reluctance on the part of shopkeepers in accepting them for payment for goods sold. I can only repeat that now with all the emphasis I can command: shopkeepers should not refuse these 10/- pieces because they are full value for 10/- in the same way as a 10/- note or 10/- made up of different coins. It should not be necessary to repeat this over and over again, though I admit instances have arisen in which they have been refused.
Mr. O'Leary
Payment will continue in these coins?
It will continue, but, where difficulty arises, exchanges naturally will facilitate those affected.