Michael Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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25. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the discussions he has had with the board and chief executive officer of An Post regarding the post office network; if he will guarantee that no post offices will close this year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3774/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to provide a high-quality postal service and maintain a nationwide customer-focused network of post offices in the community. Operational matters including the opening and closing of post offices are a matter for the Board and management of An Post. It is worth noting that, while there were 197 net post office closures between 2006 and 2010, there have only been 24 net closures from 2010 to 2014.

As shareholder, I have a strong concern in relation to the ongoing commercial position of the Company and I regularly liaise with the Company including the Chair and Chief Executive Officer in this regard.

The post office network faces significant challenges given the impact of the economic downturn over the last few years, changes in technology and customer retail preferences. The network stands well positioned, however, to become the front-office provider of choice for Government and the financial services sector for both electronic transactions as well as the more traditional over-the-counter transactions.

On 21 December 2014, I announced the appointment of Mr. Bobby Kerr as the independent Chair of a Post Office Network Business Development Group. Mr. Kerr will bring a depth of knowledge and experience in identifying and developing business opportunities for the post office network. The Group, which has commenced its work this week, will engage with the private sector and Government organisations and agencies in exploring potential opportunities for new commercial and Government business for the network. It is anticipated that the group will produce a report this Summer.