Micheál Martin (Cork South-Central, Fianna Fail)

I do not know the background to the Crosshaven situation. As the Deputy said, it is just hot off the press. However, I will follow it up. I work closely with the Irish Postmasters Union and we keep in touch with the network. As the Deputy knows, the Government has committed to supporting Ireland's post office network and as part of that commitment, it is currently providing An Post with €10 million funding per annum over a three-year fixed term from 2023 to 2025. Obviously, there will be a further evaluation post 2025. The programme for Government is clear in recognising the need to support Ireland's post offices. We will continue to provide the nationwide network of post offices with funding to ensure their sustainability and enhance the value they bring to local communities. In some instances someone may retire and there may not be takers for the position, but it depends, so I will check out the Crosshaven situation.

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