Vol. 398 No. 1
144 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Social Welfare , in view of the number of rural post offices closed in counties Laois and Offaly over the past two years, if he will ensure the maintenance of service at the present level; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
My Department are kept informed of any proposals in relation to post offices services that would affect the payment of social welfare payments. An Post have been made aware of the impact that the closure of post offices can have on social welfare clients. This factor is taken into account when the question of closing an individual post office is being considered. Where small rural and urban post offices have closed in recent years the pensioners affected were advised and payment of their pensions was transferred to other post offices nominated by the pensioners.
The closure of a particular post office is a matter for An Post to decide having regard to various factors such as local circumstances and, ultimately, commercial viability.
