Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 May 2026
38. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will outline any plans he and An Post have for a more expansive range of public services available at post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32460/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to a sustainable An Post and post office network as a key component of the economic and social infrastructure throughout Ireland. The Programme for Government commits to providing the nationwide network of post offices with funding to ensure their sustainability and enhance the value they bring to local communities. In line with this commitment, on 13 January 2026, Government approved renewed funding for the Post Office Network over the next 5 years (2026-2030), at an enhanced amount of €15m per annum from my Department.
It should be noted that An Post is a commercial State body with a mandate to act commercially. An Post has statutory responsibility for the State's postal service and the post office network. Decisions relating to the network, including decisions relating to specific post offices and services offered through the network are operational matters for the Board and management of the company and not one in which I have any function. The terms under which Postmasters contract with An Post is a matter between the Postmasters and An Post and any negotiations are a matter for both parties directly.
While the operation of the network is a matter for the company, it should be noted An Post provides important services to its customers and key Government services to citizens; including through commercial contracts with the Department of Social Protection and the National Treasury Management Agency.
The report of the Interdepartmental Group, which was established to, inter alia, examine the feasibility of additional Government services being contracted through An Post and the Post Office Network was published in 2022. None of the Departments or agencies involved were in a position to offer additional services for delivery by An Post. It is a matter for each Department or agency with responsibility for a service to consider how best to deliver their services. However, while I have no role in services outside of my remit, and cannot transfer such services to An Post, I and my officials will be happy to engage with Departments should they wish to transfer services under their remit.
