Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein)
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14. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when a report will be forthcoming from the post office business review group. [16294/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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In recognition of the challenges facing the post office network, I established the Post Office Network Business Development Group in January this year 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 has met on three occasions, with a forthcoming meeting scheduled for 30 April. While deliberations are ongoing, a number of work-streams have been identified and are being actively pursued. I anticipate that the interim report, which is due shortly, will provide an overview of progress to date and an indication of future activities. I expect the final report of the Group later this year.