by Louise Doyle
AN Post has said it is continuing to look for a contractor to take on the running of the post office in Rathmullan following its closure last week.
The post office on the Main Street has shut its doors after 53 years of service, as its owners Bernadette and John Kelly have retired.
Customers have been transferred to the post office in Ramelton.
Two attempts to source a contractor proved unsuccessful but efforts will continue.
“Rathmullan Post Office closed on Friday 12th April and customers were transferred to the office in Ramelton,” an An Post spokesperson told the Donegal News.
“We had advertised the contract for Rathmullan on two occasions but to no avail. We will continue looking for a contractor to take on the running of the post office in Rathmullan and will consider the closure as temporary. But in the absence of interest so far permanent closure seems a likely outcome.”
Meanwhile, Maria Doherty, Sinn Féin candidate in the Milford Local Election Area (LEA), has branded the closure of Rathmullan Post Office as “another blow to rural Ireland”.
She is calling on the Post Office Service to ensure that a new tender is provided for Rathmullan Post Office.
“This is another blow to rural Ireland,” said Ms Doherty.
“Post offices are a vital part of social and economic life in local communities and these closures have had a devastating impact.”
Ms Doherty said it was “unacceptable” that people were now having to travel to Ramelton to access post office services.
“An Post must now step up its efforts and make every effort to reopen the Post office open for the community in Rathmullan.”
Since 1971, Rathmullan Post Office has been operating on the Main Street.
Meanwhile, announcing the closure of Rathmullan Post Office, Bernadette and John Kelly recalled an “awarding journey” and thanked their staff and customers over the years.
They shared: “We bid farewell as our Post Office closes its doors.
“It has been a long and rewarding journey filled with many stories and colourful local characters. As with all good things in life, its time has come to an end.
“We would like to thank Angela Crerand for her wonderful loyal service over the past 53 years.
“We also extend that thank you to our dear customers, it has been a great pleasure serving you.
“With much appreciation, we make this announcement. Bernadette and John Kelly.”
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