asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that Thomas J. Coleman, 17 Hardwicke Street, Dublin, was employed in the General Post Office from February, 1920, until September, 1922, at which time he joined the National Army, that he was discharged with good character from the Army in December, 1923; whether he is aware that Coleman has made repeated and unsuccessful applications for reinstatement in his former position, and whether, in view of the many promises made by Ministers to those who served in and are now demobilised from the Army, he will order the reinstatement of this man?
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DUBLIN POSTAL EMPLOYE'S REINSTATEMENT.
Mr. Coleman was employed for a short time in the Dublin Post Office as a temporary hand. He ceased duty in September, 1922, without giving notice, and without intimating his intention of joining the National Army. In view of the temporary nature of his previous service he could only be taken back when an opening was available. It has not been possible to offer him re-employment since his demobilisation, but his name has been specially noted for consideration when the first opportunity arises.
Arising out of that answer, can the Minister assure the Dáil that no ex-member of the National Army not previously employed in the Post Office has been taken on; if any ex-members of the National Army have been taken on who had not previously served in the Post Office, and does he not consider that this man has a grievance owing to his having served in the Post Office previous to having joined in the National Army as mentioned in the question?
I should say it depended very much on the location and also on the time and requirements of the Department.
Is it not a fact, also, that this particular individual left the service at a time when there was a Post Office strike on?
The question of the strike has no bearing on his re-instatement.