The Senator has made her point.

I strongly support Senator Marie-Louise O'Donnell's comments on post offices. People are confused, with redundancy packages being offered to postmasters and the chief executive officer making a statement that An Post would not close post offices. This is a crucial issue for rural and urban areas and clarity must be brought to the matter. Six months ago, there was confusion about which Minister was dealing with the issue.

I ask that the Deputy Leader support our call to get the relevant Minister to come before the Seanad in order that there might be some clarity, especially at a time when all the banks are reducing their facilities in many towns and villages. It is very important that An Post is strongly supported and that it is placed on a firm footing in the context of its activities throughout the State.