Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan says there is no threat to jobs at Portlaoise Mail Centre.
Earlier today, Sinn Fein TD Brian Stanley has called on the CEO of An Post David McRedmond and the Minister for Communications Richard Bruton TD to bring clarity to the situation regarding the future of Portlaoise Mail Centre.
According to Mr Stanley, the future of the mail centre may be in jeopardy following a number of changes that have been made.
Deputy Stanley says that parcel mail has been moved to Dublin while the customs checking facility has also been transferred out of Portlaoise.
However, Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan says that there is no threat and he has spoken to An Post.
Minister Flanagan said: “I have been in contact with An Post this afternoon and they have confirmed that there is absolutely no truth in what has been alleged by Deputy Stanley.
“I am disappointed that Deputy Stanley, who raised this issue before and during the recent General Election, has again raised this matter despite repeat assurances from An Post that Portlaoise Mail Centre will not be closed.
“It is reckless of Deputy Stanley to raise this issue at a time of national emergency when the workers in Portlaoise Mail Centre are continuing to perform their duties and showing great courage given the sensitive nature of their work.
“Earlier this week I spoke with the Portlaoise Mail Centre Manager, Gareth Byrne.
“I thanked him for his work and asked him to convey my appreciation to the hardworking staff in Portlaoise Mail Centre, including the team of post men and post women and their families, all of whom are making an most valuable contribution at this time of great challenge.“
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