The cost of posting a letter will jump by 25 cent to €1.65 on February 27th, while businesses will be hit with the increase from March 1st.

The price hike, according to An Post, is due to increased operating costs and a decline of 8% in the number of letters posted in the last 12 months.

Aontú party leader Peadar Tóibín said small businesses in particular will be hit hard by the increase.

“This is incredible,” he said. 

“This is the fifth increase within four-years in the price of a stamp in Ireland. 

“We’re talking about a 65% increase in that period of time - which is a massive increase. 

“In terms of who this is going to hit; it’s going to hit small businesses - many of whom send dozens of letters on a weekly basis.” 

A man posting a letter. Picture by: Alamy.com. 

Deputy Tóibín older people too would feel the impact of the price hike. 

“The older demographic send far more letters than younger people - these individuals will be hit too,” he said. 

“So, I’m calling on the Government to look at what’s driving the costs and seeing can this semi-State [body] see what costs can be reduced.” 

According to An Post, the number of letters sent has dropped by 50% over the last decade.

Main image: A post man at a letter box. Picture by: Alamy.com.