Communications Committee engages with Postmasters on future of Post Offices

Comprising 90% of postmasters nationally, the IPU highlight and represent the interests of Postmasters with An Post, Government and politicians generally.

Vice-Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee John O’Mahony TD said: “Members were impressed by the proactive approach by the Postmasters to ensure that the network of Post Offices, so crucial to the fabric of rural life in Ireland in particular, is sustained.

“The theme of financial inclusion loomed large and the Committee heard a strong argument that the Post Office, deeply rooted and trusted in the communities they serve, play a central role in providing the 'unbanked' with a basic bank account.

“The IPU’s thought-provoking presentation will inform the Committee as they consider the practical and enriching role Post Offices can continue to play in Irish life into the future.”

During the meeting, the Committee Members also scrutinised a number of EU legislative proposals, related to proposed fishing stock regulations in non-EU waters. The Committee agreed that COM (2011) 586 and COM (2011) 717 warrant further scrutiny and will seek further information and data from the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and the Marine.

Ends
For further information contact:
Paul Hand,
Houses of the Oireachtas,
Communications Unit,
Leinster House,
Dublin 2
P: +3531 618 4484
M: +353 87 6949926
F: +3531 618 4551
paul.hand@oireachtas.ie

Committee Membership
Deputies
Tom Barry, Fine Gael
Michael Colreavy, Sinn Fein
Pat Deering, Fine Gael
Andrew Doyle, Fine Gael
Martin Ferris, Sinn Fein
Noel Harrington, Fine Gael
Martin Heydon, Fine Gael
Colm Keaveney, Labour Party
Mattie McGrath, Independent
Michael McNamara, Labour Party
Michael Moynihan, Fianna Fail
Éamon Ó Cuív, Fianna Fail
John O’Mahony, Fine Gael
Ann Phelan, Labour Party
Thomas Pringle, Independent
 
Senators
Michael Comiskey
Paschal Mooney
Pat O’Neill
Mary Ann O’Brien
Brian Ó Domhnaill
John Whelan