Jersey - Union angry at postal competition

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The union representing 400 Jersey Post staff has said it is "surprised, shocked and angry" at moves to increase competition.

The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority announced proposals for two more firms to handle bulk mail items in direct competition to Jersey Post.

A public consultation on the proposals will run until the end of April.

The Communication Workers Union (CWU) said it would be "competition for the sake of it".

The union said the move could threaten the viability of Jersey Post.

Under the proposals, Citipost and Hub would be allowed to handle large letters and packets as long as they comply with minimum volume requirements of 50 large letters or 25 packets in any one mailing.

Jobs warning

At the moment two companies other than Jersey Post have postal licences in the island - Regency Holdings and Hi Speed Freight Services.

Chuck Webb, Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority's (JCRA) executive director, said increasing competition would meet current levels of demand.

In a statement, the union said: "We believe this decision, if allowed to be introduced, will seriously threaten the long term viability of Jersey Post, and will undermine the very fabric of the universal service and the delivery to all addresses across the island.

"The CWU believe that this decision by the JCRA is so serious that it will be our intention to immediately embark on a campaign designed to stop its introduction."

Jersey Post has already warned opening the postal industry up to extra competition could lead to job losses.