Post Offices fear change to fortnightly payments could force branches to close

The switch to fortnightly social welfare payments has led to post offices losing a quarter of their business.

The Irish Postmasters' Union says transactions were down 25 per cent in August compared to the same month last year.

Some social welfare payments, including disability allowance, are still being paid every two weeks because of the pandemic.

IPU general secretary Ned O'Hara says that should be changed - to prevent more post offices facing closure.