Vol. 424 No. 6
19 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications her views with regard to the concepts of universal services, reserve services and service quality within the terms of the EC Commission's Green Paper on Postal Services; whether she proposes to make a submission to the Commission in response to its Green Paper; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
42 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications if, in view of the publication of the Green Paper on Postal Services by the European Commission, she intends to request An Post to suspend its rationalisation programme and to await the final deliberations on the Green Paper; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 42 together.
I outlined the purpose and main policy options of the EC Green Paper on the Development of the Single Market for Postal Services in reply to a Question on 20 May last. The European Commission is allowing Government and other interested bodies a six-month period, ending in December next, to furnish views on the Green Paper.
Some months ago I launched a wide-ranging consultation process on the Green Paper and, on completion of that process, I will convey my views on the Paper to the European Commission. I have invited written views from some 50 bodies. In addition, I held a seminar in Dublin Castle on 28 September and arrangements are being made for a Dáil debate on the Green Paper at an early date. At this stage I am not in a position to outline my views on the policy options set out in the Green Paper. However, I can inform the House that I fully support the central thrust of the Green Paper i.e. the provision of a universal postal service at affordable prices and with a satisfactory quality of service throughout the Community.
The House is already aware that An Post is in serious financial difficulty and that there is an urgent need for measures to restore the company to financial health. Some remedial action has already been taken and management/union negotiations on further recovery measures are in progress. I wish to place on record my appreciation of the the progress which, I understand, is being made in discussions between the company and the Trade Unions. I want to compliment the Unions and management on their constructive approach which is now being taken and wish them every success in their discussions.
