Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 November 2004
131 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to proposals for An Post to subcontract out the delivery of mail in rural areas; the way in which this may impact on An Post’s universal service obligations; his views on whether such a plan may result in poorer postal services to rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31267/04]
View answerThe universal service obligation which, includes nationwide delivery requirements, is enshrined in EU and Irish law and, therefore, it is a statutory requirement for An Post, as the designated universal service provider. The issue of detailed arrangements for delivery of mail on a nationwide basis is a separate issue and one that does not dilute in any way the universal service obligation imposed on An Post.
As part of the process of restructuring, aimed at improving the efficiency of postal services, An Post has in mind a pilot project in relation to "owner drivers". The matter is an operational one for consideration by the board and management of An Post and, therefore, one for which I have no function.
