Speaking in a debate at Stormont, the Mid-Ulster Representative said: "The importance of this issue is reflected in the media coverage that has been given to the announcement that so many post offices in Northern Ireland face closure.

"Four post offices in Mid Ulster have been earmarked for closure - Culnady, Sandholes, Killycolpy and Clonoe - and a further three are to be downgraded to provide outreach services.

"Mid Ulster is a predominately rural constituency, and the closure of post offices in the above areas will be a hammer blow to the communities that they serve. Post offices are a vital part of the fabric of rural areas, and I do not accept that they should be closed.

"The people of Desertmartin, Churchtown and Dunnamore are only slightly better off. Although their post offices are not due to be closed completely, they are to be downgraded, with an outreach service being put in place.

"As experience has taught us in this country, simply saying no is not enough. If we are to persuade the Government and Post Office to rethink their closure plans, we must present them with an alternative that will deliver viable and sustainable businesses. That will ensure that we do not find ourselves in the same position later down the line.

"We need to breathe new life into rural communities. The Executive and local government must examine what they can do to assist the threatened post offices via funding, rate relief and the transfer of functions from council or Government offices into local offices that might be incorporated into post offices. A Government rethink is required."