Independent MP Terry Lister has questioned the announced closure of three post offices, calling it a big move with little dividends.

Mr Lister said he appreciates the challenge of balancing the Island’s budget, but has questioned how closing St David’s, Harrington Sound and Somerset Bridge sub-post offices fits into Government’s greater plan.

All three post offices are set to close their doors on November 1, but Government has pledged the move will not cost staff their jobs, or lead to a reduction in service.

“To achieve the balanced Current Account, Government must save $200 million,” Mr Lister said. “The Minister’s statement indicates that closing these three post offices will save $75,000.

“Closing three post offices is a big move, but for a small financial benefit. How many Government departments will have to experience closures in order to make a significant dent into the $200m deficit?

“What is Government’s goal in this specific measure? If it is to lease out property, or to sell Government-owned property, then the Minister of Works should have the responsibility of rolling out a plan for divesting of buildings all over the country. Is this the goal?”

The MP suggested that Government may have made the announcement too soon, noting that while Government has said something will be done with the buildings, they do not appear to have any concrete ideas about what.

“This may generate interest, and result in good business opportunities being presented for consideration,” he said. “On the other hand, for a savings of $25,000 on average, there could be significant running costs of these closed buildings if they are not leased or sold.

“The announcement was silent on the subject of post office boxes. Again, this goes to the idea of jumping the gun. Surely this press release should have included a statement outlining where box holders would go to collect their mail after November. I am disappointed to learn that at this point the answer is ‘I don’t know’.”

Mr Lister also questioned if the Government has been in communication with the unions about the move, asking if they support the changes that will impact mail carriers.

“With a promise of no job losses then it is obvious that mail carriers will be assigned to existing post offices,” he said. “This, in turn, will mean mail carriers working their usual routes will be operating from a new base. I support this however it must be agreed to.”