Future of postal network must be guaranteed – Byrne

Increased funding must be made available to secure the future of the Irish postal network, said a Fine Gael Senator.

Senator Cathal Byrne said that immediate clarity is needed around future funding to ensure the continued sustainability of the network.

“We urgently need to see increased levels of investment in our postal network. At the moment, the Government is funding the network to the tune of approximately €10 million in direct intervention. The Irish Postal Union (IPU) representatives are seeking an increase of €5 million to bring the total to €15 million a year.

“The contract is due to expire at the end of this year, so now is the ideal time to get a new funding plan with increased support in place.

“We need to examine the viability of some of the network, we have 900 post offices across the country, and sadly around 300 are at risk of closure.

“Post Offices that are in danger of closing must be helped immediately to ensure the public still has access to vital services across our towns and villages.

“I am keen to engage with Minister Charlie McConalogue who is the minister for postal policy. The future viability of the post office network is an issue that affects towns and villages throughout the country, and I feel very strongly that every post office must be supported to remain open.

“The Programme for Government commits to continue to provide the nationwide network of post offices with funding to ensure their sustainability and enhance the value they bring to local communities. We need to ensure this happens so that people nationwide can continue to access essential services in their own communities.

“We have a duty to ensure that there is adequate investment in the post office network, allowing providers to offer a range of products and an efficient service fit for a modern economy.

“I will be writing to the Minister to ascertain his views on the issue and see where we can work together to move this issue in a positive direction”, concluded Senator Byrne.