GSP 07-26 Resourcing
05/March/2026
Description
You will be aware from previous communications the CWU and An Post have engaged in intensive discussions regarding the urgent need for additional resources in final mile to cater for the significant parcel volume growth. I am pleased to report the company has responded positively to the unions representations for additional staffing to alleviate the over dependency on overtime, growing volumes and high absence levels. The outcome of our discussions and the agreed approach is outlined in the attached correspondence.
In simple terms significant additional resources will be added to augment the existing DSU design and baseline. The intention is to reduce the current overtime dependency, by filling vacancies and long-term absences, reinstatement of night duties and a fast targeting exercise to have resources in place where it is required. Successful implementation, with local engagement will provide much needed assistance for delivery staff, enable a renewed focus on achieving Quality-of-Service levels to 94% next day delivery for all product streams and crucially, the long-term sustainability of the Company.
We have agreed to jointly monitor the changes which will pe progressed in accordance with existing agreements and procedures. In tandem I am also pleased to confirm a positive policy change by An Post in respect of permanent recruitments and appointments for existing staff as outlined by the Chief People Officer Eleanor Nash in the attached letter.
Recruitment
Initial recruitment of circa 300 new employees will be recruited into the Final Mile Operation.
Resourcing
- New recruits will be assigned to locations based on priority, and using the most up to date data
- New employees will be recruited on an initial 12-month Fixed Term Contract basis.
- This approach allows, in parallel, to review existing contractual arrangements in each location to determine the number of permanent roles and permanent contracts required.
- The existing Garda Vetting and Pre-Employment Medical (PEM) processes remain a requirement. The company will endeavour to expedite these processes as efficiently as possible.
Deployment of Additional Resources
- In addition to full-time Fixed Term contracts (37.5 hours per week), the company will also look to implement a number of part-time and “nights only” fixed-term contracts.
- The “nights only” contracts will address the reinstatement of the Night Duties that were implemented during Peak on an ongoing basis and will bolster night attendance overall.
- The exact number of new recruits per location will be determined based on a review of current baselines, upcoming retirements, level of Long-Term Absence and increased parcel volumes.
- Where duty competitions apply to internal recruitment processes, “Pro-Term” Duty Competitions will be facilitated.
Engagement and Governance
- Changes progressed in conjunction with the CWU, in accordance with existing agreements and procedures.
- Local engagement at DSU level between DSM and CWU Reps is central to the engagement process and is crucial to the successful implementation.
- The established Joint Working Groups will continue to operate during this fast-targeting exercise Any matters arising that cannot be addressed locally will be referred to the JWG and / or CSG for consideration. The process will be co-ordinated by Frank Donohoe President CWU and Garrett Byrne An Post.
NRDP, Route & DSU Design
- NRDP will progress as agreed:
- Phase 10 – 9 Sites currently progressing as per plan.
- Phase 11 – 10 Sites, paused to allow a focus on recruitment & staff deployment
- Capital approval for a further 47 sets of parcel sorting rollers (conveyors) for those DSU’s with 35 or more routes, capital cost circa €300k.
- We will continue with the RM 2000 bench modification to create more floor space for the safe & efficient handling and sorting of parcel volumes.
We will separately contact Branch Secretaries regarding commencement and implementation.
Attachment 1 to GS Circular 07-26
Attachment 2 GS Circular 07-26
Attachment 3 GS Circular 07-26