asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware (1) that the position of postman in the Caltra (County Galway) area—to which Mr. Patrick Geraghty has been appointed—was not advertised as on a former occasion; (2) that the appointee is the chairman of a Fianna Fáil cumann in that district and is also the occupier of a holding of land some 30 acres in extent; and, if, in the circumstances, he will indicate what steps he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Position of Postman.
(1) Vacancies for auxiliary postman are not usually advertised. Instead, the local employment exchange is asked to submit a list of suitable candidates from those on the local register. Persons already in temporary Post Office employment are also, in certain circumstances, eligible.
(2) It came to light since the appointment was made that Mr. Geraghty was chairman of the local Fianna Fáil cumann and he was instructed, in accordance with the regulations, to resign that office. He has done so.
He was appointed after careful consideration of the claims and qualifications of all the candidates.
Could the Minister say whether or not that position was previously advertised?
I have already told the Deputy that it is not usual to advertise. People are recruited from the labour exchange.
Was the post advertised in any previous case?
I have already indicated to the Deputy that it is not usual to advertise publicly vacancies in the Post Office service for auxiliary postmen. They are recruited from the labour exchange.
Is it the practice of the Minister's Department to make appointments to the Post Office such as we have in this place where the successful applicant has 30 acres of land? I think it is a disgraceful procedure.
Is it all cured by his resignation?