Good news in the post

AN POST has backtracked on plans to close Finglas East Post Office and will advertise for the position of postmaster early next week.

The decision follows pressure from politicians and a well organised campaign by locals who were angered at the prospect of losing their local post office.

The post office at Nevin Stores Spar on Glasnevin Avenue was due to close next month following the resignation of the current postmistress.

An Post had planned to move customers who collect social welfare payments to another post office in the area and later give them the option to transfer to one of their choice.

However, on Friday, An Post announced it had had a change of heart and the news was met with delight throughout the local community.

“We have reviewed our decision and now intend to advertise the position of postmaster early next week,” a spokesperson told Northside People.

Manager of Spar, Ann Marie Fox, said locals were greatly relieved to hear the welcome news.

“We’re absolutely delighted,” she said. “There was huge support for the campaign to save the post office. We had collected over 4,000 signatures.

“We’d like to thank everybody who supported the campaign. It made all the difference”

Locals are confident a new postmaster can be found and it’s understood there already has been expressions of interest.

Local TD Noel Rock (FG)had spearheaded a campaign to save the post office and said local pressure had forced a u-turn on the proposal to close.

“This is fantastic news for the area and I am satisfied to learn that common sense has prevailed on this matter,” he said.

“It was important that An Post was aware of the need for this amenity in the local area. It is a vital hub for members of our community including the elderly and those who have a disability.

“I would like to thank all of those who signed the petition at the Spar on Glasnevin Avenue and who emailed me asking for their names to be added to the petition.

“There has been a strong showing by the community on this matter and I was satisfied to play a role in ensuring that the matter was positively resolved.

“I look forward to a positive future for the Finglas East Post Office in terms of its business but also the role it will continue play in the community.  I have no doubt that it will continue to be a helpful and friendly community hub for many years to come,”

Local councillor Paul McAuliffe (FF) also welcomed news that the post office position will be advertised.

“It means there will be a post office in Finglas East, and it will remain in its current location most likely,” he said. “This is fantastic news, especially for older people and people with a disability.

“We need the Government to support An Post and local postmasters so that this threat of closure is not visited on other local communities in Dublin North West and elsewhere.”