Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has warned that Government inaction is placing the future of post offices across Waterford at risk, revealing that eight post offices have closed across the county in less than a decade.
Speaking during a Dáil debate on legislation relating to the Post Office Network Business Support Scheme, Deputy McGuinness said rural and Gaeltacht communities cannot continue to lose essential public services while the Government stands back.
“Eight post offices have already closed in Waterford in less than ten years. That is eight communities that have lost a vital local service, and unless the Government changes course, more will follow.
“Post offices are far more than places to collect pensions or send parcels. They support local businesses, provide essential services and, in many rural communities, are among the last remaining public services. For many older people in particular, they are also an important point of social contact.
“The closure of the post office in An Rinn was especially disappointing. It represented the loss of the last public-facing State service available through the medium of Irish in our Gaeltacht. Despite repeated warnings, the Government chose not to intervene.
“Communities are constantly told that technology or the market will replace these services. That simply is not the reality in rural Ireland.
“Last year I met with the then President of the Irish Postmasters’ Union, Sean Martin of Tramore Post Office, who made clear that an additional €15 million annually is needed to secure the future of the network and prevent further closures. Postmasters have embraced change, diversified their services and adapted to new demands, but they cannot continue to do more with less.
“I support the legislation before the Dáil because it provides additional support, but it only extends to 2030. Rural communities, postmasters and their staff need certainty beyond that. Government must commit to the long-term future of the post office network.
“Access to public services should not depend on your postcode. Whether someone lives in Waterford city, An Rinn, Ardmore, Ballyduff or anywhere else in the county, they deserve access to essential local services.
“The Government cannot continue allowing rural and Gaeltacht communities to be hollowed out. Protecting our post offices means protecting the economic and social fabric of communities across Waterford.”
Conor D. McGuinness TD 