Royal Mail send postmen back to dog attack estate

Royal Mail send postmen back to dog attack estate

10 July 2013

MAIL deliveries to the Kennedy Square estate in Downpatrick have resumed.

The Royal Mail has lifted a suspension on deliveries it imposed after a postman was recently attacked by an Alsatian, sustaining injuries to his arm.

Mail was delivered to homes for the first time in almost two weeks last Saturday morning following talks between the owner of the dog, Royal Mail, Housing Executive and Down Council officials and local politicians.

Councillors Éamonn Mac Con Midhe and Liam Johnston hosted last Friday’s talks which resulted in agreement that the Alsatian which attacked the postman would not be in the Kennedy Square area when post is being delivered.

Councillor Mac Con Midhe said he’s pleased the meeting, which lasted for around an hour, resulted in agreement on the way forward.

He said Royal Mail representatives were happy with the assurances they received that the dog which attacked the postman would not be about when mail is being delivered.

“Councillor Johnston and I are happy that this issue has been resolved and that everyone in the Kennedy Square estate is now receiving mail again,” said Councillor Mac Con Midhe.

“While it was regrettable this issue which occurred on June 24 has taken longer to resolve than was hoped, we hope people will realise the serious implications of allowing their dogs to run freely.”

Councillor Mac Con Midhe said it’s vital people understand and support the decision Royal Mail took following the incident in Kennedy Square.

He added: “Health and safety is a major issue in the modern workplace. Royal Mail cannot ask its staff to go into an area where someone could get hurt.”

South Down MP Margaret Ritchie has also welcomed the reinstatement of mail delivery services to the Downpatrick estate.

“I understand that a resolution has now been found to allow the post to be reinstated for the benefit of residents as well as ensuring postal workers can undertake their work in safer conditions,” she said.

The MP added: “I’m pleased this matter has now been brought to a satisfactory conclusion. The reinstatement of this service will ensure that residents receive letters regarding benefits, hospital/medical appointments and other personal issues.”