You will be aware from previous circulars of the Union’s claim to have increases applied to the Drugs Refund Scheme. 

This matter was scheduled for a hearing at the Labour Court last Thursday.  However, following direct discussions with An Post the following proposal was accepted by the Union’s Executive:

The Company will increase the monthly level for drugs payments refunds (as set out in the scheme) from €53 to €85
The Company will present to the Union its plans for reform of the existing Drugs Refund and Medical  schemes and the Union agrees to address these matters through the normal  industrial relations procedures (if necessary).  At these meetings the Union’s claim for  retrospection will also be discussed.
The Company will arrange the first meeting in order to present its proposals to the Union, before the end of 2007
The Company will recommend this agreement to the Board’s Remuneration Committee and the Union will do likewise to its National Executive.  When this has been ratified by both parties, the Company will implement the increase immediately.

It is understood this matter will also be considered by the Remuneration Sub Committee Board of An Post.  In the expectation of their approval the payments will take effect from the 1st December 2007.