'Huge relief': Two local Clare post offices 'saved' amid concerns for their future

The local post offices in Shannon and Carrigaholt have been 'saved' after new Postmasters were secured, it has been confirmed.

There has been been uncertainty in both communities, with potential disruptions to service and possible closures, following the decision of the current postmasters not to renew their contracts with An Post.

It has now been confirmed by Clare TD Cathal Crowe, that both Post Offices have been "saved and will have no disruption to service."

He has revealed that new Postmasters have been secured that there will be no disruption of service to customers throughout the handover.

Speaking on his delight of the confirmation, Crowe said: "The postal network is of vital importance to villages and towns all around Clare and I have been working very closely with An Post to support their efforts in finding new Postmasters to continue the services in Shannon and Carrigaholt.” 

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"This is of huge relief to those living in Shannon and Carrigaholt. I want to wish the outgoing Postmasters the very best and thank them for their service to-date, and to welcome the incoming Postmasters.” 

He expressed his belief in the value of the postal network and highlighted that he has been lobbying for increased funding and Government supports to help ensure its survival going forward. 

Explaining that: "I have worked closely with the Independent Postmasters Group, and Cllr Tom O'Callaghan, to help secure Government funding of an additional €5m in Budget 2026 for the postal network per year for the next five years, which is a total investment of €75m over the term of this Government."