Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)

The post office is facing an uncertain future. A local post office is important for all people. Above all, it is crucial for the elderly. The post office is important for human interaction for elderly people who are often isolated and lonely. Proprietors of post offices, like proprietors of corner shops, played and, luckily in some places, continue to play an important role in keeping an eye on older people and people living alone. They notice if an elderly person does not show up to receive his or her pension. This is invaluable and extremely worthwhile.

Ireland's post office network plays a central role and function in the social and economic life of the country and has done so since the foundation of the State. It is vital that An Post is in a position to provide a modern, efficient, reliable and competitive postal service. It is time for the Government to become proactive on preserving the future of our network of post offices. In this context, the Government must address any outstanding labour relations issues within An Post.

The Government must recognise the need to address the appalling low level of pay to a substantial number of postmasters. This issue has been ongoing for a long time and must be addressed. The Government has turned a blind eye to it. The Government must also recognise the existence of a public service obligation and the role the post office plays in the community, notwithstanding deregulation, and facilitate the development and extension of a wide range of compatible services through the post office network.

The Government must encourage all Departments, such as the Department of Social and Family Affairs, to use the services of An Post for payments or other financial transactions or transmissions and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to facilitate the provision of an accurate electoral register.

See this speech in context