Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Are any members looking to come in? I have a few brief questions. I wish Ms Bolger well in her new role. In a former life, I was a self-employed chartered accountant. I dealt with many people who were setting up a business. If they came to me, we looked for core things in any town and village, namely a national school, a church, a bank and a post office. If there was a post office in a town or village we knew there was activity in that town or village which was a key part of infrastructure within any town or village.

Broadband and telecoms companies all want to set up networks. Not too long ago there were railways in every square inch of Ireland. For whatever reason, many were disbanded and houses were built instead. We now want to rebuild our railways. I ask that everything is done to maintain and use the An Post network. It brings links to communities. There is a review under way. Ms Bolger is the chair of a board. What can be done to enhance the services and ensure that An Post keeps its network? Once a network goes, it is very difficult to bring it back. Ms Bolger might comment on that, and the priorities for An Post.

It is about ensuring that we do not throw out the baby with the bath water. Myriad areas are affected when a network goes. We are now considering establishing rail links the length and breadth of Ireland. In many cases, we may have to purchase land where tracks were previously laid but which are now in private ownership. Ms Bolger might give her perspective on that. I represent Limerick City. Postmasters are extremely worried at the moment. They are apprehensive. They provide a vital service. Ms Bolger might give me her overall thoughts on their future.