So An Post is entering the personal financial services sector with a move initially into motor finance via its outlets and a national call centre. There were several elements of the announcement that attracted onlookers' interest. The first was the very idea that a State financial body which has been known to refuse to accept even a personal cheque in payment for products and services should be entering the fray in a very competitive world where consumer comfort is a key factor in attaining success. It was also interesting that a company which is so reluctant to adapt to the norms of financial transactions of the 1970s, never mind the 1990s should have the foresight to appoint a director of e-commerce development. We wish Mr Terry Reynolds well following his employer's Pauline conversion.

It was comforting nonetheless to notice that time does not sweep all before it. An Post's new national call centre was opened by Minister for Public Enterprise, Mary O'Rourke . . . in Athlone.