John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Government is pursuing a multi-phased strategy with the final element being the cash payments. The transformation of post offices around the country has entailed significant change, such as the introduction of e-commerce systems and banking facilities. They are facilitating a wide range of services. The Government is very supportive of the post office network, which does a fantastic job in providing a critical service. However, we must move towards a certain level of technology. I have no doubt that the strategy will allow post offices to develop their own concepts for allowing payments in cash and other methods. Approximately €9.5 billion was distributed over 43.7 million transactions last year and that is assured for the next six years. That shows the modernisation approach the Government is taking with the post office network. It will not diminish the role of post offices in any sense. It will only expand the services provided, which are already multiple and varied. I assure Deputy Troy that his concerns will be brought to the attention of the Ministers, Deputies Rabbitte and Burton. The post office network is part of the Government's plans for continuing to provide services to the consumer.

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