AN appeal to keep Burtonport Post Office open has been rejected.
Speaking following the release of the verdict this afternoon, Deputy Pat the Cope Gallagher said it was bitter blow for the area.
“It is very bad news for Burtonport. It defies logic and is impossible to comprehend why this Post Office was not given the go ahead to remain open by the appropriate authority. This is a sad and bleak day for Burtonport with the decision to reject the Post Office appeal – I wish to compliment those who lodged a very strong and robust appeal to this decision, he said.
Deputy Gallagher criticised the appeals process as a ” non-process” and said “poor decisions” had been taken in relation to the closures of Dunfanaghy, Dunkineely and Gortahork Post Offices.
“It is impossible to understand why Burtonport Post Office was not recommended for reopening. When one considers the population of the area and the distances from other post offices, it in my view fulfils all the criteria for a case and point for keeping a Post Office within a community. It is also worth noting that Burtonport PO served as a mail centre for Arranmore Island,” Deputy Gallagher added.