Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State. I would like to think the Minister would take An Post to task for the manner in which it is conducting its business on this issue. That is at the core of the problem. It is not a private company that can keep all its affairs private; even private companies cannot do that. It is working to deliver a service we see not only as economic, but that has social value. It should be consulting with the community, particularly in a situation where somebody is willing to take over the service. Sadly, in many rural communities there is nobody to do that because of rural decline and an aged population. That is not the case here and as has been described, this is a vibrant community that is very interested in holding on to this service. We need figures to show the reason this is not viable but none of that is forthcoming. It appears to be in keeping with some general policy but I would like it to be particular because the people of Knockmore are particular about retaining their service.

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