Watchdog warns over post office closures – comment
RESIDENTS are being kept in the dark over post offices closures, according to a watchdog group today claimed
Members of the newly-formed Aberdeen and North-east Postwatch Scotland fear for the future of rural post offices
And they are furious about the unheralded closure of two lifeline services
The local Postwatch chairman have joined shared the anger of residents in protesting against the closure of who saw post offices at Fordoun, near Laurencekirk, and Daviot, near Inverurie, stamped out – with little warning. Postwatch chairman Pat Stewart said: “I am particularly concerned because notification of the loss these offices was given only days before the actual closures took place.” said Pat Stewart
“Closure of rural post offices is one of the issues the group is extremely worried about andIf we are to do anything to slow this trend it is essential that we are given as much advance notice as possible.” Sir Robert Smith, MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, has long campaigned to protect the post office network
He said: “The Post Office is often the heart of the community and we must be vigilant to ensure they get the support they deserve and can continue to provide a good service.” the MP said
The Post Office at Daviot shut up shop at the end of January, with folk who claim Pensioners and people claiming pensions and other benefits now having to travel to Inverurie
Fordoun Post Office closed days later following the resignation of the sub-postmistress
The move has meant pensioners and other folk having to travel four miles to Laurencekirk
The Post Office confirmed there have been “a number” of enquiries about taking over the running of the Mearns service
Copyright 2002 Aberdeen Press & Journal.
