Urgent talks sought over Derry postal delays

An urgent meeting is being sought with Royal Mail over concerns about disruption to postal deliveries in the Derry area.

Sinn Féin MLA Pádraig Delargy, who is calling for the meeting, said he has previously raised with Royal Mail concerns that parcels are being prioritised over letters with the result that many people are not receiving important correspondence in good time.

The Foyle MLA said: “Royal Mail previously issued assurances that this would not be the case, but my understanding from speaking to many postal staff in the city, is that parcels continue to take precedence and letters are being delayed.

“I am deeply concerned at that because these delays result in many people missing vital information relating to hospital appointments or tax and insurance deadlines for example, and clearly the fear is that this will only get worse in the run up to Christmas.

“I am also concerned that staff are having to bear the brunt of the understandable frustration from service users when these decisions are completely out of their hands.

“Due to this I have requested an urgent meeting with the Royal Mail Regional Manager and have asked that the Communication Workers Union also attend this discussion to ensure the voices of postal staff are heard.”

Meanwhile, Mr Delargy's fellow Sinn Fein Foyle MLA Ciara Ferguson has raised concerns about the potential closure of a Post Office branch in Derry.

Ms Ferguson said: "Our Post Offices are a lifeline to many in our community and offer vital services including banking, parcel exchange and passport assistance.

“I am dismayed that up to four Post Office branches are now at risk of closure in the north, including one in Derry.

“I have written to the Post Office highlighting my concerns and to seek further clarity as to what this will mean for both customers and workers.

“In the mouth of Christmas this is deeply concerning news for local workers and families, and I will be pressing the Post Office to keep as many branches operational as possible.”