Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

One key issue dealt with in the programme for Government relates to rural post offices. The closure of many post offices in rural Ireland is something many fear. We were told that up to 500 post offices could have been on the edge last year. In fairness, the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Denis Naughten, has done considerable work to get the Irish Postmasters Union and An Post to try to work out a solution. I understand there has been some progress in having an alternative or different model of contract in place. Will the Taoiseach inform us how much progress has been made? When can we expect to see some solution? Many post offices are affected. In our constituency a number are hanging in the balance. Those involved are unsure what will happen. We would like to have some sense of certainty. The post office in my parish of Aughavas is one of those affected. Another is in Ballygawley, County Sligo. There are several others around the country. We, therefore, need to have some sense of closure in that regard. These are all post offices that are associated with small business and they can easily continue to function if they receive some support.

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