Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left)
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951. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the action he has taken with the Department of Social Protection in relation to letters being issued by her Department encouraging persons to change the payment method for their pension to a bank account instead of the post office, in view of the significant undermining of post offices that this measure represents. [11894/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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I am aware that the Department of Social Protection is engaging in a pilot exercise in relation to payment methods. However, such issues are a matter for the Minister for Social Protection.

The post office network is facing significant challenges given changes in technology and evolving customer preferences. However, it is also well positioned to become the front office provider of choice for Government and the financial services sector for both electronic and over the counter transactions.

In February, I established the Post Office Network Business Development Group to explore potential commercial opportunities for post offices. The Terms of Reference for the Group are to:

- examine the potential from existing and new Government and commercial business that could be transacted through the post office network;

- identify the new business opportunities for the post office network, taking account of international experience;

- engage as necessary with the public sector, commercial bodies and other interested parties in pursuit of the above objectives;

- prepare an interim and final report for the Minister in accordance with an agreed timetable.

The Group's work will be of strategic importance to the future of the post office network. The final report of the Group will be available later this year.