I propose to take Questions Nos. 464, 467 and 468 together.
It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to provide a high quality postal service and maintain a nationwide network of customer focused post offices in the community.
I note the recent publication of the 6-point plan by the Irish Postmasters’ Union. It aligns with this Government’s consistent message that a strong, modern and commercially viable post office network, that is responsive to changing consumer choices, is essential for urban and rural communities alike.
Taking account of changes in technology and general retail behaviour, there are significant challenges facing the post office network. In that regard, I established the Post Office Network Business Development Group earlier this year, of which the Irish Postmasters Union is a member. The Terms of Reference for the Group are to:
- examine the potential from existing and new Government and commercial business that could be transacted through the post office network;
- identify the new business opportunities for the post office network, taking account of international experience;
- engage as necessary with the public sector, commercial bodies and other interested parties in pursuit of the above objectives;
- prepare an interim and final report for the Minister in accordance with an agreed timetable.
The work of the Group will be of strategic importance to the future of the post office network and I look forward to it concluding its deliberations later this year. It is in everyone’s interest that we have a sustainable post office network, one that meets the needs of the consumer first and foremost. Our collective challenge will be to ensure that the future services offered by An Post and the Postmasters place the company on a sound financial footing.
