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The Democratic Alliance (DA) is concerned that the South African Post Office (SAPO) branch in Daniëlskuil, which has been closed down for the past two months, shows no signs of re-opening soon.

The branch was reportedly closed by the landowner as the South African Post Office has repeatedly failed to pay its rent. Once again, government’s failure to honour its commitments have deprived a community of a much-needed service.

The closure of the branch is a severe blow to the community, especially considering the fact that Daniëlskuil is a small town with no other post office.

As no notice was given of the closure, there was no time for residents to make alternative arrangements and deliveries of letters and parcels still need to be collected. Included among the parcels is chronic medication desperately needed by some residents.

The blow can be felt especially by pensioners and social grant beneficiaries who frequently rely on the post office’s services.

Further disruption can be felt with the renewal of motor vehicle licenses.

The Daniëlskuil branch is one of 25 in the Northern Cape which recently installed e-Natis computer terminals to allow for the renewal of motor vehicle licenses at post offices. This forms part of an agreement which sees the function carried over from municipalities to post offices, but motorists are now left stranded.

We have escalated the matter to the DA Shadow Minister of Communications, Phumzile van Damme, to request urgent assistance in restoring the postal service to the Daniëlskuil community.

In an age of instant messages and telecommunications, it is easy to overlook the importance of broader services delivered by the post office in rural communities. A DA-led government will ensure that all communities receive access to these services.

Issued by DA