The Irish government has launched Digital Assist, a new service offering unique access to government websites and information in 10 post offices across the country.
An Post’s Digital Assist service will utilize local post offices for the delivery of government services and advice. As part of the service, post office staff will assist customers to access these services, forms and information. Customers can also print government application forms and information brochures free of charge.
The first unit has been unveiled in County Kildare, located at Ballymore Eustace post office in Fogarty’s Quikpick in the center of the village. The other nine post offices where Digital Assist is being piloted are Kanturk, Co. Cork; Carndonagh, Co. Donegal; Athenry, Co. Galway; Castleisland, Co. Kerry; Crossmolina, Co. Mayo; Newbliss, Co. Monaghan; Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon; Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo; and Fethard on Sea, Co. Wexford.
Denis Naughten, minister for communications, climate action and environment, said, “Earlier this year, I asked An Post to develop the concept of Digital Assist whereby the post office would provide a gateway to online government services for people. Government funding of €80,000 (US$92,300) has been provided by the Minister for Community and Rural Development Michael Ring to help with rolling out the Digital Assist pilot scheme.
“The local post office is best placed to provide support for people who do not want to go online to carry out their day to day business. Representing the largest retail network in Ireland, the network of post offices is the obvious choice as the access point for citizens with its reach, trusted brand and existing strong relationship in our local communities.”