Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
706 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will introduce a subsidy similar to the social network payment by the Department of Trade and Industry in the UK in order that the smaller post offices can remain viable, particularly those in rural isolated areas that are finding it difficult to attract persons to apply for the post office contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22502/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government and An Post share the objectives of maintaining a nationwide post office service and maximising the volume of viable business handled by the post office network.
I have no plans to introduce a subsidy payment to An Post. The long-term future of the post office network can only be secured by meeting the needs of customers. In this regard I have asked the Postmasters Union and An Post to work in partnership with a view to securing existing business and to pursuing new business opportunities, as these arise in the future. To help secure the future of the network, the Government approved an equity injection of €12.7 million for An Post to facilitate the modernisation of the post office network. The equity injection was paid to the company in 2003.
Finally, I understand that An Post is planning a review of the system of remuneration for post office agencies in order to address any issues relating to the attraction of suitable candidates to the network.
707 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans he has to extend the existing post office in the Knocklyon area or to open a second post office. [22506/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have no statutory function in relation to this matter. It is an operational issue for the board and management of An Post.
