CLARE Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has said that a new Government funding scheme will help the county’s post office network to continue their vital role in the communities they serve.
“Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton, who has responsibility for the postal service, has updated me on a new Government funding package of €10 million every year over the next three years to support a sustainable, nationwide post office network,” Deputy Carey explained.
“A high-value, high-quality post office network is an essential public service and postmasters play a central and trusted role in our communities. Their true value was underlined during the Covid pandemic when they brought a new meaning to the term ‘public service’.
“This funding announcement marks the first time in the history of Government where we are providing direct financial support to post masters.
“It will give them certainty and stability, allowing them to plan and develop their services in Clare. Government is encouraging the post office network to deliver an increased range of community banking and e-commerce services to the public and businesses.
The details will be published shortly in a report from the Inter-Departmental Group established to examine the feasibility of additional Government services being provided through the post office network.
“The funding will also help safeguard the future of more vulnerable post offices and I know that it will be of particular benefit to several Clare communities,” Deputy Carey added.
PHOTO: Deputy Joe Carey with representatives of the Irish Postmasters Association outside his Ennis constituency office
