Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)

We will continue to determine how we can ensure we utilise and maximise the post office network in terms of providing face-to-to face services to local communities. As he knows, in many small villages post offices are the last remaining face-to-face service. They provide important services in towns of all sizes, in particular small towns. We want to make sure that we examine how we can utilise the network to the best capacity possible.

We also recognise the importance of making sure that post offices are viable and provide an economically viable income for postmasters. That is why over the past three years we have delivered €10 million per year. We are committed to making sure we renew that funding. We have engaged with the stakeholders and the budgetary process, subject to budgetary considerations, to make sure we continue to support post offices. I was glad to attend the Irish Postmasters Union annual conference recently and engage with it on its ideas. It is something on which Deputy McCarthy has very strong views which he has made very clear. I look forward to continuing to work with him and other Deputies to ensure we support the network.

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