Minister looks to the future of the postal service

Hon Minister Arden McLean speaks at the re-opening
of the Seven Mile Beach Post Office

Monday,  June  27, 2005

As the most badly damaged office in the wake of Hurricane Ivan, Seven Mile Beach Post Office finally re-opened its doors after almost nine months and a full make-over. 

At the opening ceremony the Hon Arden McLean, who will take responsibility for the Postal Service on 1 July took the opportunity to commend the work of the staff.

“I must note that the Cayman Islands Postal Service ranks with the best of the region in terms of offering a high-quality, reputable and stable service,” said Mr McLean.

“This is largely due to the resilience and dedication of the staff, for while there have been improvements to the George Town and district sub-post offices in recent years, there have also been many unforeseen obstacles for the management and staff to overcome in the delivery of services – and of course the delivery of the customers’ mail.”

He added that the physical upgrades will continue where necessary, and said he had hopes for the national postal system to become a viable, competitive agency, facing the modern demands of business and private customers alike.

“In particular, in an era of constant cost-based evaluations of services – even within Government – the Post Office should strive to increase its revenue-earning capabilities,” added Mr McLean.

“I believe that the Post Office – a cornerstone for our economy in the early decades before banking and tourism – can still be a significant revenue earner.”

With the sound foundation already established, he said it would not be a difficult task. 

“From small businesses’ parcel shipments, to families regularly sending care-packages off to students overseas, there is a wealth of new opportunities to be mined,” added the minister in his speech.

“In de-centralising these services, more opportunities for employment would also be generated in the outer districts, as businesses and workers would be further encouraged to develop and work in the rural areas of our Islands. The postal system can offer the unique blend of home-town service, and valuable commercial functions.” 

He explained how possibilities were also presented by modern telecommunications and the combination of the traditional and modern within the service could develop.

“I anticipate an exciting period as minister and I offer this message as a heads-up to staff and clients alike, that the new, forward-thinking postal service will meet the demands of today – and tomorrow – with confidence, courtesy and a cutting-edge approach,” concluded the minister.

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