A consultation on the duties of the Post Office has been released by the Department of Economic Development.
 
The current legislation relating to postal services on the Isle of Man is now almost 20 years old and in the intervening period the postal marketplace has changed significantly due to the increasing sophistication of communications technology and changing customer preferences.

The proposed Bill will allow the Post Office to take account of technologies developed since 1993, including such areas as digital communication and data management, hybrid mail solutions (production/ management of physical mail from electronic data and vice versa) and other similar services and products.
 
This is a major step forward for the Post Office who, along with other global postal operators have seen significant declines in mail volumes over recent years. The Bill will allow them to provide modern services which build upon their traditional role as a neutral, trusted, carrier of information and physical items.
 
Commenting on the proposals, Minister for Economic Development, John Shimmin MHK, said:
 
‘Over the last nineteen years technology has significantly changed the way we communicate and do business. The current legislation was drafted before these changes and is viewed by the Post Office as outdated and prohibitive in enabling them to seize opportunities.
 
‘We would invite all interested parties to comment on the proposals, which will help us identify the most appropriate way forward for Isle of Man Post Office.’
 
Copies of the consultation documents can be downloaded from www.gov.im/consultations or requested from the Department of Economic Development. Submissions regarding the proposals should be sent by post or email to: Gary Lark, Department of Economic Development, St George’s Court, Upper Church Street, Douglas, IM1 2SG or via email to gary.lark@gov.im. The closing date is Friday 5th October 2012.