asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs why the sum of £10 was deducted from the salary payment for May, 1970, of an employee of his Department (details supplied).
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Post Office Employee's Salary Deduction.
24.
The deduction is an instalment in respect of arrears of contributions due by the sub-postmistress under the Social Welfare Acts but paid by my Department, on her behalf, to enable her to qualify for a contributory old age pension.
Is the Minister aware that employers are not entitled to deduct contributions in arrear? These are deducted weekly and, if not, the employer is responsible for the full amount of the contributions. Why is it that in this case something actually illegal is being done? This instruction is printed on the back of the insurance card, that no employer is entitled to deduct in arrears.
I suggest that I might be allowed an opportunity to have another look at this case and I shall communicate with the Deputy.
Yes. What is being done at present is not legal.