asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if his attention has been directed to a statement made in the British House of Commons to the effect that the British post office is to become a public corporation in 1969 because the British Government believe that this change will make a considerable contribution to efficiency in the years ahead; if the Irish Government have given any consideration to making a similar change in regard to the post office in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Post Office as Public Corporation.
13.
I am aware of the statement referred to. The organisational status of the Department of Posts and Telegraphs has been under consideration in recent years. Some administrative changes have been made and extensions of the Department's powers secured with the general object of enabling the Post Office to act more freely and to cultivate a more commercial approach in the conduct of its services; and it has been intended in the light of experience to re-examine the general position with a view to seeing whether any more radical changes in the Department's status or commercial practices are warranted. Any decision to be taken will, of course, be determined by reference to conditions in this country, but naturally the new arrangement being adopted in Britain—which to the best of my knowledge is unique—will be observed with special attention and interest.