The final report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group, which was published in January of this year, made a number of recommendations to support the future sustainability of post offices. These include recommendations in relation to the renewal of the post office network, the provision of motor tax services, and the creation of hubs around which local economic and social activity could revolve. The report also recommended that An Post should, following appropriate consultation with postmasters and others, review and amend the five-year strategy for the post office network.
The Programme for a Partnership Government commits to acting on the recommendations in the report of the Post Office Network Business Development Group. A number of Working Groups have been established to progress the recommendations, including through the establishment of a Network Renewal Implementation Group, which is being independently chaired by Mr Bobby Kerr. This Group is examining the number and spatial distribution of post offices, branch modernisation, the streamlining of products and services, postmaster payments and contracts, and training and qualifications for post office employees. I anticipate that this work will conclude shortly.
I separately established the Post Office Hub Working Group to identify potential models under which the post offices could act as community hubs, especially in rural areas. I chaired a number of meetings of this Group, which has now concluded its deliberations and is currently finalising its report.
My officials have also been examining the potential for the post offices to deliver other services, including options for the renewal of motor tax. A number of potential options for this service have been identified and proposals are currently being finalised in consultation with the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.
