The threatened closure of Ballineen Post Office in West Cork was raised in the Dáil by local TDs Michael Collins (Ind) and Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (FF).
THE threatened closure of Ballineen Post Office in West Cork was raised in the Dáil by local TDs Michael Collins (Ind) and Margaret Murphy O’Mahony (FF).
Only a few weeks ago Deputy Collins said the postmaster in the post office passed away, sadly. ‘If it is shut, it will be a disaster for the town,’ he said. ‘Can the Government intervene to save this post office?’
Deputy Murphy O’Mahony said there is a specific reference to the post office network in the Programme for Government.
‘In the Tánaiste’s home county of Cork, there is fear that Ballineen PO will be closed,’ she said. ‘I attended a public meeting in the town recently. The passion of the community in trying to keep the post office open is unreal. I ask the Tánaiste to do his best to ensure it will remain open.’
In reply, Tánaiste Simon Coveney said the Cabinet has had detailed discussions on the issues related to the financial pressures on An Post and the need for the government to provide support, where appropriate. ‘We recognise the importance of the post office network across rural areas. It is unreasonable to expect me to deal with a specific case and a specific request, but I will ask the relevant Minister to revert to the deputies directly.’
