Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I concur with my colleagues from Tipperary. We have met the chief executive and senior management of An Post. I met the Minister, Deputy Bruton, last week, but he refused to meet the Oireachtas representatives from Tipperary, which was disappointing. As a result of our conversation, the Minister communicated with me in writing today. He is holding the line on An Post's justification for this decision. The contents of his response to me are almost identical to what we were told by An Post's chief executive and management. Effectively, the Minister is refusing to engage, interfere in the decision or have any role in having it revoked. I would have thought that the Minister would have found this topic of such urgency and importance that he would be present this evening to give an explanation to the House, particularly the Members from Tipperary. That he is not is disappointing.

It is important to remember that the decision contravenes and contradicts Government policy on urban regeneration and renewal. As my colleagues mentioned, there is an investment programme for Liberty Square, which is an iconic centre and the heart and soul of Thurles town. Without the post office's footfall, there will be a severe impact on all of the businesses around the square and on people who depend on those businesses for their livelihoods. The decision is detrimental to the business community and is having a harmful impact on the attitude of older people, who feel that they are being let down by An Post in relocating the service.

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