The closure of 159 post offices must continue despite the threat of an independent TD to withdraw government support on the problem.
Minister of Finance Paschal Donohoe has indicated that the closures will proceed as planned and insisted that the changes are necessary to maintain a viable network.
Independent TD Michael Harty has warned that he will not support the budget if the post offices are closed.
Mr Harty wanted a PSO scheme (Public Service Obligation) to help fund post offices in rural areas.
The government is also under pressure from Fianna Fáil, who wants to raise the subject in Budget talks.
The post offices must be closed as part of a deal between the Irish Postmasters Union and An Post that was supported by 80 percent of the IPU members.
Mr. Donohoe said that the closures were a "voluntary decision" by local postmasters and insisted that the government invested funds to support An Post.
He said that An Post had "significant financial problems," but the government is "fully committed" to maintaining a "viable postoffice network across the country."
Mr. Donohoe refused to be attracted by the question of whether he would be open to a discussion about a PSO for post offices in future budgetary discussions.
Last night, the IPU thanked postmasters who volunteered to close.
General secretary Ned O & # 39; Hara said that there was "regret" about the closing of post offices, but the IPU respects the decision of those who have opted for an exit package.
O & # 39; Hara said that the IPU, which has highlighted the challenges of the network for years, supported a reform and development plan that "aims to secure the strongest possible future".
Irish Independent
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