Newstalk presenter and entrepreneur Bobby Kerr has been appointed as chairman of the Post Office Network Business Development Group.

The body has been set up to examine the potential and opportunities for new government and commercial business that could be made through the post office network.

Communications Minister Alex White has welcomed Mr Kerr as the chair of the group, saying: "I am delighted to welcome Bobby Kerr as Chair of the Post Office Network Business Development Group. Bobby Kerr brings a depth of knowledge and experience in identifying and developing business opportunities. His input will be invaluable in our work to secure the future of the post office network."

The group will launch in the new year and will be made up of people from An Post, the Irish Postmasters' Union and organisations from across the public and private sectors.

It will also engage with both commercial businesses, government organisations and agencies to assist in its work.

Rural Economic Development Minister, Ann Phelan, added: "Post offices are often the hub of local communities across rural Ireland, and I look forward to working with Bobby Kerr and the Business Development Group in the New Year to find new ways of bringing business into the hearts of our communities."

Mr Kerr says the post office needs to be safeguarded in rural Ireland.