Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
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448. To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will take on board the six-point action plan, as presented by the Irish Postmasters' Union; if he will provide an update on the Government's engagement with postmasters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16483/15]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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I note the recent publication of the 6-point plan by the Irish Postmasters’ Union. It aligns with this Government’s consistent message that a strong, modern and commercially viable post office network, that is responsive to changing consumer choices, is essential for urban and rural communities alike.

Taking account of changes in technology and general retail behaviour, there are significant challenges facing the post office network. In that regard, I established the Post Office Network Business Development Group earlier this year, of which the Irish Postmasters Union is a member. 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 work of the Group will be of strategic importance to the future of the post office network and I look forward to it concluding its deliberations later this year. I understand that the discussions that have taken place to date have been productive, which is encouraging as it is in everyone’s interest that we have a sustainable post office network and one that meets the needs of the consumer first and foremost. Our collective challenge will be to ensure that the future services offered by An Post and the postmasters place the company on a sound financial footing.