Written answers

Wednesday, 14 February 2007

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Post Office Network

10:00 pm

Photo of Arthur MorganArthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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Question 146: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the Irish Postmasters' Union in their concerns regarding the decline of post offices here, where hundreds of local post offices have closed over the past number of years; and the measures, proposals and initiatives he will introduce to address this crisis, which is particularly an issue in rural Ireland. [5297/07]

Photo of Noel DempseyNoel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I have no function in this matter. Matters relating to post office closures are for the board and management of An Post. However, I have asked the company to ensure that any strategy for the development of the company should ensure the long-term viability of the post office network.

It was to this end that the Government recently gave its approval for An Post to enter into a joint venture agreement with Belgian Bank, Fortis to set up a retail banking business. Key to the Government approval of this joint venture was that it not only offers a real opportunity for the growth and development of An Post and the post office network but that it will, in time, greatly benefit the income streams of postmasters.

In order to broaden the discussion on the future of the network, I appointed Mr. Eamonn Ryan to act as facilitator between the Irish Postmasters' Union and An Post to identify issues of mutual concern, including the possibility of an exit package, and plot a roadmap for their resolution. I have asked that the parties engage in constructive dialogue in relation to Mr Ryan.

Photo of Liam TwomeyLiam Twomey (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 147: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of post offices in existence on a county basis as compared to five years ago; if the trend is in accord with Government policy in regard to future postal services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5456/07]

Photo of Noel DempseyNoel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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As set out clearly in the Programme for Government, this Government and the Board of An Post continue to be committed to the objective of ensuring a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network into the future. Matters relating to the number of post offices and postal services are however, in the first instance, matters for the Board and management of An Post.

An Post has been asked to provide the information requested, which will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

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