Alex White (Dublin South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to provide a high quality, nationwide postal service and maintain a nationwide customer-focused network of post offices in the community. Proposals for a whole-of-government review of the scope for providing additional public services through local post offices were presented to the Cabinet committee on social policy at its meeting on 28 April last. In its initial consideration, the committee agreed to the proposal for a review of the scope for providing additional public services through the post offices. This process is under way and my Department is examining the initial responses received from other Departments with a view to engaging in further discussions with the relevant Departments, as necessary, with the aim of presenting a final report to the Cabinet committee in September. The impact of the use of electronic transfer for social welfare payments on local post offices is a factor to be considered as part of this process.

An Post has undertaken a programme of capital investment in the computerisation of the post office network, including the automation of all post offices. The post office network is well positioned to become the front office provider of choice for Government and the financial services sector for both electronic transactions as well as the more traditional over-the-counter transactions. Any such developments would be subject to public procurement requirements. I envisage a strong future for the network by using its existing strengths to remain a significant player in the provision of Government, financial and other services.

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