Pilot project may see meals for the elderly delivered by An Post vans

MEALS and other essential goods could soon be delivered to people in remote areas by An Post. 

The idea is being explored by West Cork Junior Minister Jim Daly who is in discussions with An Post with a view to delivering Meals on Wheels through their network. 

As well as benefiting people living remotely, he said it could help future proof the postal service which is under threat in places where it’s being underutilised.

The FG deputy said: ‘I can confirm I have approached An Post to develop the idea of delivering meals and non-perishable goods to older vulnerable people in rural areas across the country.’

The Clonakilty-based deputy added that he would like to see this plan first piloted in the West Cork area. 

‘This is something that I have been interested in exploring for some time now and I am very happy with the positive response I’ve received from An Post,’ he explained.

The Minister is currently in talks with the organisation on how to progress the idea but he said:  ‘It would see local post delivery vans stocked with meals, medicines and other non-perishables that could be delivered to vulnerable people in isolated areas.The pilot would explore the benefits this service may provide to both those living in rural areas and local post offices.’

At present An Post delivers approximately 2.5m items per day to over 2m residential and commercial addresses, using a road fleet of over 2,600 vehicles. 

He added: ‘We must realise that we have a world class network of a daily delivery service to every household in Ireland but we as consumers are not choosing to post our correspondence as often as we used to. 

‘If we do not explore other possible options that will sustain this invaluable service it will come under pressure to survive.’