Postcodes could appear on Irish letters within three years if a Government think-tank gives the system the go ahead.
An 11-member National Postcode Project Board met for the first time today and is due to issue recommendations to Communications Minister Noel Dempsey before the end of the year.
The group will consider the feasibility, design and implementation of a nationwide postcode system. Mr Dempsey personally supports the idea but his spokesman said any implementation will not begin before 2008.
ComReg chairperson Isolde Goggin has also been asked by Mr Dempsey to hire local project managers to report on the most efficient and public-friendly system. Mr Dempsey also rushed to reassure householders and businesses that current addresses would not be changed.
"The system must enable the retention of the current address both in English and Irish irrespective of spelling," he said.
The National Board is made up of representatives of the Communications and Environment departments, An Post, Communications Workers Union, ESB Networks, the Irish Bankers Federation, the CSO as well as direct marketing and express carrier firms.
Mr Dempsey added: "Postcodes provide competitive advantage and are critical in keeping postal delivery accurate, quick and relevant.
"I firmly believe that the Project Board I have appointed will engage fully with those involved and will work towards building a consensus and a modern, inclusive and effective postcode model for the future".
PA