James Bannon (Fine Gael)

I join Senator Higgins in complimenting the communications regulator in not allowing An Post to provide roadside letterboxes. There is a genuine fear and a feeling of inconvenience in rural communities with regard to the safety of people's post in such boxes. What concerns me greatly, however, is the proposal to introduce two-tier postal charges. I ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources to come before the House to assure Members that a two-tier system of postal charges will not be introduced. The Minister should also take action regarding the closure of approximately 500 rural post offices. The latter is being achieved by stealth in many counties. Since Christmas, I understand that six rural post offices closed in County Longford. Action must be taken on this matter. There is no other provision made for elderly people who depend on the rural postal service.