Let post offices process driving licences, argues local TD

Westmeath TD Peter Burke has argued in favour of proposals that would see post offices playing a central role in issuing and processing driving licences.

This idea was raised in the Seanad this week and the Minister for Communications, Denis Naughten, has been asked to attend the Upper House to outline how plans to secure the post office network are progressing.

“I understand that the contract for issuing and processing driving licenses is currently being tendered for again and i believe that it makes real sense for Post Offices to act as agents in this process,' said Deputy Burke.

“I know in Athlone a special unit works out of the Shopping Centre to take photos and receive payment for new and renewed licenses, with the only other centre being in Mullingar. Many counties only have one centre spanning the entire region.

“There is no reason why the Post Office would not be able to carry out this work, as workers are highly experience in processing formal applications and dealing with official documents. The staff and the premises are in place, and it is the perfect opportunity to give the Post Office network more functions at a time when we are trying to promote the network and increase their value.'

He said a reduction in the number of offices processing driving licences meant some people currently have to travel round trips of up to 100 miles to avail of the service.

“Up until 2013, vehicle licensing had been dealt with by Local Authorities after which the process came under the remit of the Road Safety Authority, which tendered out the job, the contract for which has now expired.

“A huge negative impact of the new regime was that it resulted in fewer offices at which drivers could obtain or renew their licences. This was a real problem for people in rural counties with dispersed populations - I know some individuals currently must drive a round trip of up to 100 miles to avail of the service.

“Post Offices already offer a wider service than just mail and have a network with a reach throughout the country.

“In much the same way as An Post facilitate the issuing of passports and bill payments, I believe there is a role for our Post Office in the processing and issuing of driving licence and it would be a wasted opportunity if we did not take advantage of this,' he said.