The Treasury says around 70% of people affected by a delay in benefits payments shuold have received their money by now.

People on benefits did not get money in their bank accounts first thing today because of what the government describes as ’an administrative issue’.

Originally, Treasury bosses said they would not get payments until Monday.

But they came up with a solution which enabled the majority of payments to be made this afternoon.

All outstanding payments should be credited by lunchtime tomorrow (Friday).

Any people who have not received their payments and are still in need of assistance should contact social security by calling 686415.

Anyone who has suffered any financial penalties connected to this matter should also contact social security.

Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK said: ’I wish to apologise for the inconvenience this matter will have undoubtedly caused those affected. Payment processing will continue from first thing tomorrow morning and should be resolved by lunchtime.’