FF Launches Policy Paper On Enhancing Post Office Network

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Michael Moynihan TD, has launched the party's policy paper on enhancing our Post Office Network.

The document entitled 'Enhancing our Post Offices: Fianna Fáil's Vision for the Future of the Irish Post Office Network' sets out in detail plans for consolidating the existing work of the Post Office network while increasing the commercial activity in every office.

Deputy Moynihan commented: "The very existence of Post Offices in the country is under serious threat, particularly if the network loses its contract to handle social welfare payments.

"Post Offices are the heartbeat of so many local communities across the country. It not only serves as a site for pension and welfare payments; the social benefit to these communities, particularly local ones, is immeasurable.

"Instead of diminishing the financial work that the Post Office network undertakes; Fianna Fáil proposes to enhance and expand An Post's financial services. Post Offices should become a centre for all state payments and charges.

"The only way for the Post Office network to survive and prosper is to expand the services it carries out. While the contract with the Department of Social Protection for social welfare payments is secure for the next two years, beyond that the future is uncertain.

"An Post must present itself as a hub for a host of financial transactions in communities across the country if its long-term future is to be guaranteed."

(CD/JP)