Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 18 Jun 1991

Vol. 409 No. 9

Written Answers. - Post Office Information Service.

Gerry O'Sullivan

Question:

26 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications whether, in the light of the fact that the post office network has the most outlets of any agency in the country, he has any plans to introduce a Government information service into the post office which would be totally accessible to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications (Mr. S. Brennan)

As the Deputy is no doubt aware, An Post provide display facilities on request, for Government Departments. In addition, the company provide information on the services they perform for a number of Government Departments on an agency basis e.g., social welfare entitlements, State savings schemes, dog licences and TV licences. It is also possible to consult the local register of electors at post offices.

If the Deputy has any other ideas in mind on how Government information can be disseminated using the post office network perhaps he would convey them to me and I shall have them considered by the NESC-recommended consultants, who are studying the socio-economic implications of An Post's proposal to close a number of sub-post offices, including the consideration of proposals for new sources of business for sub-post offices.