There was a warm welcome given to today’s news that Portlaoise Mail Centre is set to remain open.
Laois TDs, Minister for Justice and Equality Charlie Flanagan and Sinn Fein spokesperson on Communications Brian Stanley welcomed the decision made by An Post this morning.
Minister Flanagan stated that the decision was a vote of ‘confidence’ in Portlaoise Mail Centre.
“I very much welcome the decision of An Post to vote confidence in the Portlaoise Mail Centre.
“The decision to maintain the facility in Portlaoise is testament to the dedicated team in the workforce in the mail centre.”
Deputy Stanley also issued a statement on the news.
“This is good news for county and the jobs there are vital for the local economy.
“The Portlaoise Centre is also just a few hundred metres from a rail connection.
“The construction of the final section of the Portlaoise Orbital Route which is due to be completed in a few months means that the N80 will now pass the front gate of the mail centre,” said the Sinn Féin TD.
Both TDs spoke about developing Togher Business Park off the back of this announcement.
Minister Flanagan stated: “I am very keen that An Post consider Portlaoise for future development and in this regard, there is opportunity at the greenfield site in Togher, Portlaoise.
“The centrality of Portlaoise coupled with the loyal workforce, renders the area appropriate for investment in the parcel area.”
“An Post now need to take advantage of this and the proximity of the Togher Business Park to further develop business at the Portlaoise facility,” concluded Deputy Stanley.
An Post have instead decided to shut its Cork plant – keeping Portlaoise, Dublin and Athlone open.
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