John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)

In this context, An Post needs to implement an IT platform to comply with this and other requirements. While the Government will support the network in any way it can and the Minister has made it clear to the board and management of An Post that he will be supportive of them in their efforts to ensure the post office network continues to develop and thrive, the development and continued viability of An Post and the post office network is, in the first instance, a matter for the board and management of An Post. Consequently, the way forward is for An Post to enhance existing services and, building on existing strengths, to develop new product offerings. There is also an urgent need for it to diversify its income streams and those of postmasters. In this regard, the Government is aware that An Post, in partnership with postmasters, has had some recent success in acquiring new business for post offices. Many Members will no doubt be aware that, in accordance with a contract between An Post and AIB, customers of that bank can now transact business at more than 1,000 post offices.

The key to ensuring the post office network remains competitive and attractive to customers is to ensure it is technologically in the best possible position to retain its current contracts and avail of business opportunities as they arise. A key step in this regard has been the automation of the network which was completed in 1997.

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