Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 212: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his policy in regard to the future of An Post; the extent to which this coincides with the policy pursued by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10666/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It has been long-standing Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to compete in a liberalised market, provide a high quality, nationwide postal service and maintain a nationwide, customer-focussed network of post offices.

While the Government will support An Post and its network in any way it can, it is the responsibility of the board and management of the company to make strategic decisions regarding its future and how it will prepare itself for future competition, particularly in advance of the full liberalisation of the postal sector, set to happen in 2011.

In preparation for competition, it is vital that the company restructures itself effectively and that management and trade unions in An Post work together to transform the company into an efficient, innovative and modern service provider by implementing the agreed restructuring programme and providing innovative new service arrangements for the public.