The swell of local support already built up in the campaign to retain the post office in Ardnaree in Ballina, will have to influence An Post’s decision to keep the facility open. That’s the view of the Cathaoirleach of Ballina Municipal District, Annie Mae Reape.

The Cathaioirleach had a motion down in support of the retention of the busy Ardnaree Post office at this week’s monthly meeting of the Municipal District.

Meanwhile the threat currently hanging over the Post Office in Ardnaree, Ballina will be raised in the Dail this week.

Local Fianna Fail TD Dara Calleary will be questioning the Communications Minister Denis Naughten on the matter-  given that the Government sanctioned a 30 million euro loan late last year for An Post.

Deputy Calleary says the loan was given to fund a new business plan, and at the time, Minister Naughten outlined the important role played by Post Offices in their local communities, yet residents and businesses in the Ardnaree catchment area are facing huge disruption if the local Post Office closes.

The Post Master in Ardnaree is due to retire shortly, and An Post is currently holding a public consultation to decide on the future of postal services in the area.