Question No. 5 is the last. It is not that I have accommodated others but that I have called them because they were dealing with the same issue.

On page 50 of the programme for Government, concerning rural development and the saving of post offices, only a few weeks ago the postmaster in Ballineen post office passed away, sadly. Within a couple of weeks-----

Is this on promised legislation?

It is.

Yes. It is in the programme for Government, on page 50. Within a couple of weeks, An Post publicised the closure of this post office, which would affect the people of Ballineen and the surrounding area. If it is shut, it will be a disaster for the town. Can the Government intervene to save this post office?

That is a specific question. We are now going to deal with every post office in the country.

No. This is the one that is closing.

This is very special.

It is in the programme for Government.

The programme for Government does not mention that post office.

There is a specific reference to the post office network in the programme for Government.

In the Tánaiste's home county, County Cork, there is fear that Ballineen post office will be closed. I attended a public meeting in the town last Monday night. The passion of the community in trying to keep the post office open is unreal. I ask the Tánaiste to do his best to ensure it will remain open.

A general answer.

The Cabinet has had detailed discussions on the issues related to the financial pressures on An Post and the need for the Government to provide support, where appropriate. We recognise the importance of the post office network across rural areas.

Support it, so.

It is unreasonable to expect me to deal with a specific case and a specific request-----

There is one every day.

The Tánaiste, without interruption.

-----but I will ask the relevant Minister to revert to the Deputies directly.