Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Like Deputy Stanley, I am a local Deputy. Given that the Athlone centre was the only facility McKinsey did not visit, it was appropriate that I visit. The facility has a spare building which could easily cater for additional volume.

Unlike some people, I take the view that the universal service obligation is critical infrastructure. In November and December 2016, when the House discussed the serious difficulty in which An Post finds itself, we debated whether to alter the universal service obligation or seek the approval of the European Commission to alter it. I was not prepared to entertain either course of action.

One of An Post's strong advantages is that it has a van passing every door five days per week, every week of the year. The company is also trusted by the public, enjoys brand recognition and has a nationwide network. We need to put in place a plan that builds on these four key strengths. I am of the view that a plan which sustains not only the post office network long into the future but also the mails business, which has the potential to grow, especially in parcel deliveries, can be put in place.

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