Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

First, it is a valid point to make and to pose the question whether we have the balance right in respect of the relationship between the credit union movement and the regulator and the range of services that credit unions are permitted and not permitted to provide. It is a fair point and one that requires continued focus and reflection, and some action taken on it also. I accept that point and the Government will engage on it.

Second, in terms of the post offices, the Deputy may not have picked up on the final point I made relating to that. It is not just about banking services provided through post offices, it is about Government services provided through post offices and whether there is additionality in that respect, particularly in terms of offline Government services, to allow us to enable and utilise the post office network to provide additional services of that nature to the public in locations across the country. That is something the Government is considering. The Cabinet discussed the matter during the week. As already stated, the world is changing and the world of banking is certainly changing and technology is having an impact. We need to redefine the range of services and the level of Government supportive intervention in towns across the country.

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