● What is the situation in post offices at the moment?

Many post offices are in a real mess because pensioners are paid by the post. As a result, there are long queues and old-age pensioners are completely lost in the new pay system.

● Why did the ministry of Social security change in the payment methods of old-age pensions?

A new system aimed at making payment easier was implemented by the ministry last month. Instead of one pay clerk coming to social security centres once a month ? with the risk of those who missed the visit having to wait for one month ? or paying through the bank or the post, pensioners can now be paid through one system only, which is by post.

● What makes it difficult for old-age pensioners to adapt to the new system then?

Besides the fact that it is hard ?for old people like us to adapt to change?, the main concerned feel they have not been given enough information before the new system was introduced. Moreover, each one could receive his or her money at specific periods of the month according to the first letter of their names but many still have difficulty to understand the system. It will, however, be changed next month.

● What is the opinion of post OFFICE WORKERS?

They complain about the long procedures before paying pensioners and are asking for a computerised system. So, Mauritius Post Ltd and the ministry are currently working on a system of electronic card.