Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is an approach that has proved successful in other jurisdictions. I would like to see a number of pilot projects launched by An Post as soon as possible in order to test the concept ahead of a much wider roll-out of the model, if it proves successful. My officials are also working with the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government to examine the potential for motor tax to be offered through the post office network, and their work is almost complete.

A fundamental element of financial sustainability for the post office network will be the increased availability of financial services in branches. To this end, I very much welcome the stated intention of An Post to launch a payment account in the near future. My Department is also willing to continue to work with An Post and the Irish Postmasters Union, which were both members of the post office hub working group that I established. I was given the role in government to establish that and I did establish it. I am making recommendations to Government and the person who has responsibility for this is the Minister, Deputy Naughten. I do not have responsibility for it.

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