‘Royal Mail must provide a service which actually delivers’ - Swann

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has welcomed a direct admission from Ofcom that Royal Mail’s current performance is "not acceptable". In a response to the Mr Swann, Ofcom Chief Executive Dame Melanie Dawes confirmed that persistent delivery delays have had a serious impact on families, communities and businesses.

The response follows a letter sent by Mr Swann last month, in which he challenged the regulator over poor service levels and employment practices reported by his constituents.

Mr Swann said:

"I welcome this clear assessment from the regulator. I’ve heard from many people across South Antrim who have been left waiting for important deliveries and letters, and it is right that Ofcom has acknowledged that these delays are unacceptable. My constituents deserve a service that is reliable and fit for purpose.

"I want to make it very clear that the fault does not lie with our local posties or the staff in our sorting offices. They are working under difficult conditions and doing their best to serve the public. The current failings are a result of Royal Mail management and a lack of the necessary investment required to meet their service obligations.

"While Ofcom has set out a path for reform, Royal Mail must now demonstrate a credible plan to restore the quality of service that my constituents pay for. I will be keeping the pressure on both the regulator and Royal Mail to ensure that we see a return to a dependable postal service that actually delivers for the people of South Antrim."