Future of Mayo post offices uncertain due to lack of investment
Ireland’s Post Office network urgently requires a strategic investment of €15 million per year over five years to secure essential community services, according to a significant new report published today by the Irish Postmasters’ Union (IPU).
With the current government funding arrangement due to expire at the end of 2025, postmasters are now calling for immediate clarity from government to ensure the continued sustainability of a network that provides critical economic, social, and community supports nationwide.
The Report, “Securing the Future: Sustaining Ireland’s Post Office Network through Strategic Investment” produced by Grant Thornton places a figure of between €344 million and €776 million on the annual social and economic value of the post office network to communities across Ireland.
As banks continue to close branches and Ireland transitions to a more digitally-focused economy, post offices have become critical for financial inclusion and cash accessibility, particularly for vulnerable citizens and rural communities.
The report paints a strong picture of how post offices could be delivering more essential government services, but to do so, adequate investment must be provided to the network.
Without such funding the future is bleak, and the prospect of rapid, unrestrained closures is an immediate threat.
The IPU points to rising cost-of-living pressures, inflation, wage increases, and compliance costs that have severely impacted postmasters’ incomes.
Crucially, the public are in favour of government support for the post office network.
Uo to 89% believe it is important the government invests in keeping post offices open, 91% agree the post office remains crucial in digital era and among young people in particular, support is strong - 82% of 18 – 34 year olds’ believe their community would be worse off without a post office.
Seán Martin, president of the IPU, said: “The government can secure the future of Ireland’s Post Office Network with a strategic investment of less than €3 per citizen per year - less than the price of a cup of coffee. We’re asking for a clear, long-term commitment, not just short-term support.
“This investment will not only protect essential community services but will also enable postmasters to take on additional roles, such as increased banking services, public identity verification, support for government energy-efficiency schemes, and processing of public forms like passport applications and voter registration, helping relieve pressure on frontline public services.”
Sandra Tormey, IPU General Secretary, added: “Our network is significantly underfunded compared to other European countries, despite its vital role as a community anchor, especially in rural and underserved areas.
"Investing strategically in post offices now will protect communities, stimulate local economies, and safeguard essential public services, ensuring no community is left behind.”