Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 1210: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the retention of the reserved area for the postal service; the action he will take to support the universal service obligation within the postal system; if he has taken this matter to Cabinet or to the EU Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20883/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The draft third postal directive, which is currently being discussed at the European Council and European Parliament, proposes to remove the reserved area and fully open the postal market to competition. This, I anticipate, will deliver benefits to the consumer in the same way that the liberalisation of other sectors such as the telecommunications sector have. The draft directive also proposes to maintain the universal service obligation at its current level, a position which Ireland endorses. Maintenance of the universal service and the availability of a high quality postal service to Irish consumers are issues of key importance to Ireland in the context of liberalisation of the postal market. More generally I intend to hold a public consultation addressing issues arising from the draft directive.

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 1211: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he will take to support and encourage the electronic upgrading of the post offices and their expansion by way of compatible add on services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20884/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The matter of the electronic upgrading and expansion of post offices is an operational issue for the board and management of An Post. I have no statutory function in relation to this matter.