An Post say there is no connection between reports of money saving closures and the delay in deciding the future of two services in the North West.
Following long periods of public consultation decisions have been expected on the post service in Blacklion, Co.Cavan and Ballygawley, Co. Sligo since the end of 2016.
Today’s Irish Independent reports that recommendations have been made to government that up to 80 post offices would have to be closed down as part of a cost saving measure.
Following inquiries from Ocean FM An Post Public Affairs Manager Angus Laverty denied this is the case and confirmed there is no connection between the report undertaken last year and the delay in a decision on North West services.
The public have been waiting on a decision of the future of both Blacklion post office in Co. Cavan and Ballygawley post office in Co. Sligo since before Christmas.
Mr. Laverty said they are taking their time to ensure the correct decision is made but the local group campaigning to keep the Ballygawley post office open recently accused An Post of treating them with contempt.
Thomas Walsh of the Save Ballygawley Post Office Group says it’s hard not to connect their own situation with today’s reports.
There are currently 13 hundred post offices around the country, and the company’s reportedly losing around 12 million euro a year from its branch network.
In a statement the company have said they are aware of the reports in today’s media and deny they have come from An Post.
The statement says An Post are currently completing a detailed, in-depth review of the Post Office Network.
This review will take into account shifting demographics, the changing marketplace for services and the economics for postmasters.
An Post’s intention is to produce a plan for a commercially viable and self-funded network which will meet the needs of citizens across the State.
The work is expected to be completed within the next couple of months and any decisions on the future of services will be made then.
