Over 3,300 Mayo residents sign petition in opposition to postal service amalgamation

Mayo councillor Alma Gallagher has brought the campaign to save Ballyhaunis' An Post Delivery Service Unit directly to Tánaiste Simon Harris TD this week. She presented a petition containing 3,383 signatures in opposition to its proposed amalgamation with Castlerea.

Cllr Gallagher said the scale of local opposition highlights the depth of concern within Ballyhaunis and the surrounding area, stressing that the community is determined to have its voice heard.

“We are leaving no stone unturned in our fight for Ballyhaunis,” she said. “It is crucial that An Post listens to our concerns. This is a vital local service and the level of support for this petition shows just how important it is to the town.”

The petition was coordinated by the Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce, with Cllr Gallagher thanking Anne Cunnane and the Chamber for organising the campaign, as well as thanking residents who added their names in opposition to the proposal.

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The proposed amalgamation would see the Ballyhaunis Delivery Service Unit absorbed into Castlerea, a move that has raised fears about the impact on local jobs, service levels and the town’s wider economic health.

While operational decisions rest with An Post, the issue has now been raised at national level. The Minister for Communications has requested that the semi-State body outline its reasoning behind the proposed change.

Cllr Gallagher also acknowledged the backing of fellow Mayo councillors, Oireachtas members, Senator Mark Duffy and the Tánaiste, saying their support strengthens the campaign’s position.

“Together, we stand united in saying no to this amalgamation,” she said, adding that the campaign will continue until the proposal is withdrawn.

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