The Government must urgently commit to strategic investment in the post office network to ensure its long-term viability, particularly in rural communities across County Waterford. That’s according to Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, who is the party’s spokesperson on Community Development, Rural Affairs and the Gaeltacht. Deputy McGuinness was speaking after attending the launch this morning of the Irish Postmasters Union’s new vision for the future of the network.
Speaking after the briefing, Deputy McGuinness said the Government has consistently failed to grasp the social and economic importance of local post offices, especially in rural towns and villages where they are often the last remaining public service.
“We’ve seen it here in Waterford – in places like An Rinn – where the loss of the post office has left a real gap in the community. I’ve campaigned against those closures and have consistently called for greater supports to sustain the network. The local post office provides far more than basic services – it’s a social hub, a financial lifeline, and often the only State presence in rural communities. These are vital services that must be protected.”
Deputy McGuinness said he was glad to attend the launch of the IPU’s new community-based vision for the post office network and praised the Union’s leadership and advocacy.
“I want to commend the Irish Postmasters Union for bringing forward this clear and ambitious proposal. It was particularly encouraging to meet with IPU President – and fellow Waterford man – Seán Martin, as well as Secretary General Sandra Tormey. The IPU are putting forward practical and realistic solutions – what’s needed now is political will from Government to make them happen.”
The Waterford TD said the current contract model under An Post is not sustainable and is failing to attract new postmasters to take over when older ones retire.
“There’s a real concern across rural Waterford and other counties that once a post office closes, it won’t reopen. The current contract system isn’t fit for purpose – and unless it’s reformed, more communities will lose this vital public service. That would be a devastating blow to rural life and social inclusion.”
Sinn Féin has long supported a new public service mandate for post offices, backed by strategic investment, an expanded range of services, and better conditions for postmasters. The party’s 2023 and 2024 Alternative Budgets set out detailed proposals to safeguard the future of the network.
“The Government can’t continue to ignore what’s happening. It’s time they recognised the value of post offices – especially in places like rural Waterford – and took serious action to protect and invest in them. That means listening to communities, listening to postmasters, and delivering the long-term strategic support that’s urgently needed.”
Conor D. McGuinness TD 