Post offices shifting function to logistics and services centres

 

The government is shifting to have post offices function as logistics and services centres across the country.

 

The local postal service, which has been operational for almost 353 years, has seen a shift in business from the distribution of mail and parcels.

 

Lincoln Allen, Postmaster-General and CEO for the Post and Telecommunications Department, says the recently re-opened Liguanea Post Office was the first of 23 to be refurbished through a partnership with the National Identification System (NIDS). 

 

"Through this collaboration with NIDS several enrolment sites will be located at various post offices, island-wide. Our goal is to transform post offices, island-wide, by improving infrastructure, expanding service offerings, improving our digital capacity and capability, establishing new as well as strengthening existing strategic partnerships. Our premium service centre, now available at select post offices, offers solutions such as click and ship for online shoppers, zip mail for next day local courier service," he disclosed. 

 

Meanwhile, Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, Minister with responsibility for Digital Transformation, says each of the remaining 22 post offices being refurbished will cost up to $60 million.

 

Mona is next on the list.

 

She said the network of 238 post offices will be used to expand government services. 

 

"This includes offering financial services and creating spaces for small businesses to thrive by providing a range of business solutions, and that's where we are now. A critical part of this modernisation will be the introduction of digital service points across the country. They will serve as digital access hubs, providing free or low cost internet connectivity, computers and access to digital public services and essential online personal services such as bill payment. So if you want to renew your passport, our vision is that you can apply online at the post office," she noted. 

 

Dr. Morris Dixon and Mr. Allen were both speaking at the re-opening of the Liguanea Post office last week.