The suggestion that more than 100 rural post offices may close because of a retirement deal has rejuvenated the heartfelt protests around this issue.

Post offices and credit unions are a readymade network of branches with deep roots in their localities, says Michael Clifford.

Despite the Government’s claims, it seems small businesses are still struggling to secure funding from banks, writes Michael Clifford.

The union representing the country’s postmasters has called on An Post to support new services and innovations across its network in a bid to save post offices across the country.

A Government turf war has erupted into a full-scale public spat after Communications Minister Denis Naughten accused junior minister Michael Ring of “throwing in the towel” on the survival of post offices.

Rural Independent TD Dr Michael Harty made the threat as he warned the "trust" of rural communities across Ireland has been broken.

Protestors see the future of the post office inextricably linked to a way of life in rural Ireland, rather than a means to make money, writes Michael Clifford.

A protest is being planned for outside the GPO in Dublin tomorrow, amid fears for the future of up to 200 post offices.

Postmasters have said they are upset and worried over reports that the scale of post office closures being planned may be far greater than previously thought.

SPECULATIVE reports that in the region of 80 rural post offices are earmarked for closure have been resoundedly refuted by An Post which says it is conducting a review of the network.

Revenue officers in post offices applied charges to more than 70,000 parcels last year.

Postmasters are calling on the new Government to protect the future of their services.

We have to recognise the value of post offices to the country’s social and economic infrastructure, according to IPU general secretary Ned O’Hara

THE sorry saga around rural decline is at least as long-running as suggestions that the Shannon might be drained. 

Small rural post offices could receive up to €20,000 a year in government subsidies to stay alive.

The future of Post Offices is at risk if they cannot identify a new business model.

Post Office candidates will run in the next election after members voted in favour of the move.

Post offices will be allowed to "wither on the vine" unless the Government adopts an action plan to keep them open and vibrant, it has been claimed.