Isle of Man Post Office (IOMPO) wishes to thank the public for its overwhelming support to its public consultation.
More than 2,700 people have taken the time to have their say in how best IOMPO can adapt its letter and parcel deliveries and post office services in the community to suit demand in a financially responsible way. The consultation ran for six weeks and local residents, businesses, organisations and IOMPO clients were encouraged to get involved.
Julie Edge MHK, Chairman of IOMPO, said: "I wish to thank everyone who took the time to participate and provide their opinions on what they expect from us in the future as a modern postal business. IOMPO has a very proud heritage with a loyal and dedicated team providing trusted services that meet the needs of the community. This we wish to continue however, not at any cost and so change is necessary."
The consultation followed the initiation of a strategy by the Board and its staff to modernise the IOMPO. The results of the public consultation will now be analysed, to inform further discussions with key stakeholders, including customers, staff, unions, sub postmasters, local commissioners and other parts of Government on the key issues and the future service options available. This will allow the final direction and choices to utilise the unique attributes, capabilities and social value of the IOMPO to be fully considered by the Board, before being taken to Tynwald where the final decisions on key changes will be made.
The urgency for modernising IOMPO is reflected in the £1.2m loss being reported in the 2017/18 annual report and accounts which are being laid before Tynwald this week. This is the first loss in the history of IOMPO, emphasising the need for the business to adapt its current operations and practices to ensure it is financially responsible in delivering services that meet the changing needs and expectations of its valued customers.
Ms Edge MHK said: "Our commercial success, which has historically helped to sustain an overall profit, is no longer sufficient to offset the increasing costs of providing the service obligations under the Post Office Act. The Board are focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of services, while actively seeking new business and enhanced delivery opportunities."
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