New Limerick postmistress up for the challenge
Maria Foley outside the new post office on Henry Street. (Picture: Mike Cowhey)
It may have taken almost twelve months to get over the various, planning, administrative and building hurdles, but the new post office at Henry Street finally opened for business this Tuesday morning.
Postmistress Maria Foley, 36, decided to apply for the position when it was advertised last December following the closure of the post office at Clontarf Place.
Ms Foley, who previously worked at the post office at Edward Street for 12 years, was interviewed by An Post in January and was awarded a five-year contract in February.
“I wanted the challenge, I always wanted to do it and I knew I had the ability to do it so when the position came up I applied for it and thank God I was successful,” she said.
Despite having secured a premises at the former Celtic Bookmakers early-on, Ms Foley only secured planning permission last month.
She was granted planning permission by Limerick City Council in April but that decision was appealed to an Bord Pleanala, which upheld the original decision.
“It [the delay] was frustrating but as every issue came up we just dealt with it and we are happy now that we are at the end of the road and in a position to open and meet the public and to be here to serve them,” said Maria who added that she has received a lot of support from the local community.
“They have been travelling up and down to the GPO for the last year and the support they have shown us is unbelievable. They are all delighted that the service will be back in the community,” she said.
It was all-hands-on-deck over the Bank Holiday weekend as the final touches were completed to fit-out the new post office ahead of the opening.
In addition to Maria, two people will be employed full time, including Maria’s mother, Mary O’Hanlon.
The premises, which will offer all An Post products will also offer some banking services.
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Saturday 25 May 2013
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