Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Penrose for his views and I assure him that I will bring them to the Minister. In 2012, revenue earned from Government business amounted to over €179 million, consisting of mails income at €50 million; election and referendum, €4 million; Department of Social Protection, €59 million; NTMA, €54 million; television and dog licences, €12 million; and other revenue, €0.8 million. As Deputy Penrose mentioned, there have been significant arrangements between An Post and AIB, and with Aviva, as well as the facilitation for payment of the property tax. Following a competitive tender process, An Post has been selected by the Department of Social Protection as the provider of over-the-counter cash services for social welfare customers. Deputy Penrose has made very valuable points in his contribution. He pointed out the social and community importance of retaining the post office network and the strong bond that exists between the post office and its customers, in particular, older people. An Post has many strengths and it is the largest retail presence in the country. The Minister will continue to impress on the company the need to further exploit its unique position in this regard.

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