‘No alternative’ to closing Austin Friars Street PO, say An Post

An Post has been asked to continue its efforts to find a contractor to operate the post office on Austin Friars Street, which is to close tomorrow, Wednesday January 8.

Customers who use the facility were informed before Christmas to move their business to the main Mullingar post office on Dominick Street, half a kilometre away.

It is understood that An Post advertised the contract for Austin Friar Street after the current postmaster tendered his resignation last summer. While a number of potential candidates expressed an interest in taking on the contract, they subsequently withdrew from the process.

When contacted by the Westmeath Examiner, An Post issued a statement, saying that they “don’t have an alternative” to closing the post office.

“We worked hard to find a workable alternative here but have been unable so to do.

“The decision we made was with regret, and we apologise to any customers who will feel disadvantaged by such a move. We will do everything possible to ease the transition and to ensure that the high standard of service people have come to expect will be maintained.”

Deputy Robert Troy believes that there is a need for a second post office in Mullingar. “I have been engaged with An Post since before Christmas on this issue,” he said. “That An Post advertised this office in the last four months is proof they acknowledge a need for an second office in Mullingar too. They need to re-advertise this office once again to see what interest is there.”

Cllr Ken Glynn has been contacted by a number of constituents concerned about the closure of the post office. He says An Post need to continue the search for a new postmaster. “It is very disappointing. There is huge annoyance out there. Mullingar has always has two post offices. There’s the main post office and then the sub office, first in Fagan’s, then Buckley’s and now where it is. It is good for footfall. It’s good for businesses in the area and it’s convenient for people as it’s close to the car park.

“There has always been a second post office in the town and it’s needed with our growing population.”