Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 February 2009
518 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the future of An Post; the extent to which he has had discussions with management in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4964/09]
View answerIt is Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to compete in a liberalised market, provide a high quality, nationwide postal service and maintain a nationwide, customer-focused network of post offices.
In the past twelve months, I and officials from my Department have met a number of times with An Post management to discuss issues of importance to An Post, including the future of the company. However, it is the responsibility of the board and management of the company to make strategic decisions regarding its future and how it will prepare itself for competition, particularly in advance of the full liberalisation of the postal sector, set to happen in 2011.
In preparation for competition, it is vital that the company restructures itself effectively and that management and trade unions in An Post work together to transform the company into an efficient, innovative and modern service provider by implementing the agreed restructuring programme and providing innovative new service arrangements for the public.
