Computer fault debits employees

Press, 12 September 1986, Page 28

Computer fault debits employees

PA Nelson The Government last week almost found a new way of funding the deficit with its user-pays system. About 1000 Post Office workers in Nelson and Blenheim paid the Government for the privilege of employment. A hiccup in the new computer payout system saw wages drawn from bank accounts instead of direct-credited. While the Post Office bankroll increased by 1000 pay packets, staff found money machines rejecting plastic cards and tellers shaking heads over withdrawal slips. Post Office executive staff told branch banks the’ computer would be T

disciplined, the money released, and “please meet staff commitments.” All was well within a day or two, said Nelson’s Chief Postmaster, Mr Maurie Jeffrey. “In fact it was not as bad as all that. A large percentage of our staff use Post Office banking so were able to advise tellers that the cash was theoretically available. “In a few crisis cases the Post Office was able to make cash available in the interim. “We expect it to be smooth sailing next week,” Mr Jeffrey said. Nelson and Blenheim are the first areas to convert to the Wellingtonbased computer control.