Postal Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024

Wednesday, 17 January 2024

Questions (131)

Paul Murphy

Question:

131. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he supports the introduction of an An Post Ombudsman who could mediate in all disputes between An Post and postmasters, for example on contracts and payments, and instruct An Post management to retain all correspondence both in letter and electronic form; if he will instruct An Post take action to ensure the implementation of this ombudsman; if not, the reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1777/24]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

There are no plans to establish an Ombudsman for the Post Office network. An Post is a commercial State body with a mandate to act commercially.

The operation of the post office network and the terms under which Postmasters contract with An Post is a matter between the Postmasters and An Post and any negotiations are a matter for both parties directly and I, as Minister, have no function.