Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

By having a cap for An Post there will be certainty which will enable it to engage in its business planning. There is recognition that there is a need for a cap because it is likely that for at least five years the sector will be one in which there will not be real competition and An Post will be in a dominant position as a result of its unique advantage in having a distribution chain. The Bill recognises such market dominance. There is a common regulatory process in which the regulator will have the power to set a price cap and ensure operators work within it, make efficiencies and improve service delivery. This is a standard regulatory process and one that is appropriate. The better way is to have a five-year period, rather than having an annual battle with the regulator trying to change prices. The regulator can set a cap and review the matter after three years, if necessary.