I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 58 together.
Successive Governments and this one most notably, have consistently stated their commitment to maintaining the post office network as set out in the Programme for Government. The post office is seen as a key piece of financial and social infrastructure for both urban and rural areas. Part of the strength of the post office brand, and one of its chief selling points, is that it reaches all parts of the country and can be accessed by anyone. 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 customer focussed network of post offices in the community.
My Department’s continuing support for An Post is apparent, both in terms of the cost of postage services and the value of the contract for welfare payments. In this regard, we anticipate this year that we will pay over €50 million to An Post under a contract for cash payment services to welfare customers. This contract is very substantial in terms of its reach, value and impact.
As you are aware my colleague the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Mr Alex White, T.D., formally launched the Post Office Network Business Development Group under the independent Chairmanship of Mr Bobby Kerr in February, 2015 to explore potential commercial opportunities available to the post office network. I look forward to viewing the report from this Group.
I understand An Post is anxious to grow its existing levels of services in the light of emerging market pressures which extend beyond the delivery of welfare payments. In this context I am pleased to note An Post has tendered for the provision of a new payment and transaction account. I look forward to that becoming available in the not too distant future as it will provide alternative payment opportunities for my Department’s customers.
In order to recognise the general societal trend to electronic payments the Department has been changing some of its application forms. The option to be paid at the post office remains on the forms.
I want to emphasise that the amendments do not remove the option to be paid at the post office. This option will remain on the forms. Therefore, customers are free to opt to receive their payment at the post office if they wish. I also want to emphasise that the department continuously reviews its forms to ensure that they are amenable and relevant to all customers. I have asked the Department to review forms and update them to ensure that a more neutral wording in relation to payment options is provided.
The Department is conscious of the important role of the post office around the country, not only in respect of social welfare payments but also in offering other financial services such as paying bills and carrying out a range of banking services. The Government has consistently stated its commitment to maintaining the post office network as set out in the Programme for Government.
