asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the inconvenience caused by the closing of the Branch Post Office on the Connaught side of the town of Athlone; whether the Branch Post Office served more than two thousand people; whether the General Post Office in the town is more than half a mile from the Connaught side; and asked that this Branch Office be re-opened, or another in any premises situated on the Connaught side of the town.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. [ ORAL ANSWERS. ] - CLOSING OF ATHLONE BRANCH P.O.
The Town Sub-Post Office in Connaught Street, Athlone, was closed down, recently, following the discovery of serious irregularities which are at present under enquiry. The question as to whether a Post Office will be re-opened in the locality is under consideration. In the event of the office not being continued, licences to sell stamps would be issued to certain shopkeepers, but some little inconvenience might be caused to people who would have to travel about 400 yards further to the Head Office for the purpose of transacting Money Order business, etc.
When is it likely the Minister will issue those licences? On what date will people be able to obtain stamps in the manner mentioned?
In the very near future, just as soon as we are in a position to determine whether or not it is advisable to discontinue the Branch Office. Immediately that decision is taken the other procedure will follow, if necessary.