Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is Government policy that An Post remain a strong and viable company that is in a position to provide high-quality postal services and maintain a nationwide network of customer-focused post offices in the community. The post office network faces significant challenges given the impact of the economic downturn over the last few years, changes in technology and customer retail preferences. However, it is also well positioned to become the front office provider of choice for government and financial services sector electronic transactions, as well as the more traditional over-the-counter transactions.

The Minister recently established the post office network business development group under the chairmanship of Mr. Bobby Kerr. The group's terms of reference are to examine the potential for existing and new Government and commercial business to be transacted through the post office network; to identify the new business opportunities for the post office network, taking account of international experience; to engage, as necessary, with the public sector, commercial bodies and other interested parties in pursuit of the above objectives; and to prepare an interim and final report for the Minister in accordance with an agreed timetable.

The group’s work will be of strategic importance to the future of the post office network. Its final report will be available during the course of this year. Operational matters, including the closing of post offices, are issues for the board and management of An Post.

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