"The people who signed the new contract are currently getting support payments for the next 18 months."

Between 200 and 300 post offices could be forced to close over the next 18 months unless they are granted access to government services.

The Government has been warned that more post offices will close around the country, because postmasters cannot make a living from the business.

Postmasters from around the country are calling on the Government to take action to expand the services offered by the Irish post office network.