Minister Dillon meets Mayo postal workers as pressure grows over proposed fusion

Minister of State Alan Dillon TD met with Mayo postal workers and local business representatives in Ballyhaunis on Friday morning. 

The meeting, which also included representatives of the Ballyhaunis Chamber of Commerce and local councillor Alma Gallagher, focused on fears surrounding the future of the Ballyhaunis sorting operation, including a move to Castlerea in Co Roscommon, and the potential knock-on effects for local employment, postal service reliability and the wider East Mayo business community.

During discussions, Minister Dillon listened directly to postal workers’ concerns, with strong emphasis placed on the importance of maintaining a local postal hub in Ballyhaunis, which has long served households and businesses across the region.

He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the voices of workers and local businesses are heard at the highest levels of Government.

Speaking afterwards, the Mayo TD said he is committed to ensuring that the voices of workers and local businesses are heard at the highest levels of Government. He confirmed that the issue was raised with Tánaiste Simon Harris and is now arranging a meeting with An Post Chief Executive David McRedmond.

“A meeting is being scheduled with Mr McRedmond where we will outline the concerns raised locally and seek clarity on An Post’s plans for Mayo’s postal services,” he said.

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

Accentuating Ballyhaunis’ long-standing role in the postal network, Minister Dillon said the concerns raised by workers and businesses could not be ignored.

“Ballyhaunis has a long and proud postal tradition, and the workers here provide an essential service to families and businesses across East Mayo,” he said. “The concerns raised today are serious and require urgent engagement. I will be escalating this matter within Government and directly with An Post’s senior leadership.”

The issue has sparked widespread concern across the county, with more than 3,300 Mayo residents signing a petition opposing the proposed amalgamation of Mayo’s postal delivery services. Campaigners fear that relocating operations outside of Mayo could result in slower delivery times, job losses in Mayo and a decline in service quality.

Minister Dillon said he will continue to work closely with postal workers, Ballyhaunis businesses and local representatives to ensure Mayo’s interests are fully represented.

“I want to be absolutely clear: no decisions should be made without proper engagement with those directly affected,” he said. “I will be pressing An Post to provide certainty, transparency, and a clear commitment to maintaining strong postal services in Mayo.”