Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

On the automation of post offices in various parts of the country. The second question asked by the Deputy relates to a contractual matter between post masters and post mistresses, who are represented by the IPU, and An Post. I have had a number of discussions with the IPU in regard to contracts, rates of payment and so on and it put forward various proposals, but that is a matter between the union and An Post. For that reason I have engaged Eamon Ryan to work with the IPU and An Post to examine all the issues concerning post masters, levels of remuneration, contracts and so on to see if they can be improved. He has undertaken to do that work within a specified period of time.

The post masters have asked Farrell Grant Sparks to produce a report, which has been done, and this will be used as a basis for discussion between the parties. I agree with Deputy McCormack that a number of issues need to be resolved between An Post and post masters and post mistresses. If that can be achieved it would probably make the job more attractive to people and would help to maintain a strong nationwide service.

Automated post offices account for 95% of the business but I agree with the Deputy that the remaining 5% of post offices may be located in rural areas where, we should not forget, the social service element of An Post must be taken into account. The best way to ensure that we maintain the network is to make sure that An Post is a strong and viable company that can do the kind of business it needs to do.

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