asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture if he is aware that the services of Mr. J. Hennessy, who was employed as temporary ship inspector at Waterford for twelve months, were recently dispensed with and another officer employed in his place, and whether, in view of Mr. Hennessy's past service and experience, he will arrange for his re-employment.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - TEMPORARY SHIP INSPECTOR.
The Deputy appears to have been misinformed in the matter. The temporary ship inspector referred to was not employed in that capacity for twelve months, but during a total period of about thirteen months was occasionally employed for temporary duty, his last term of employment being from 26th February to 23rd March.
When occasional temporary assistance is required at Waterford port, his claims will continue to be considered.
The man appointed was appointed to the post as a permanent official.
Do I understand the Minister to say that the man employed in the position formerly occupied by Mr. Hennessy, is now doing Mr. Hennessy's work?
Mr. HOGAN
I dare say he is—some of it, at least. Emergencies occasionally make it necessary to employ temporary men, and he was employed as a temporary man of that kind before the permanent post was filled.
Can the Minister say what claims the present occupant of the post has over Mr. Hennessy, who had past experience?
Mr. HOGAN
He was recommended by the portal inspector, who interviewed him, and who also interviewed the man who has been appointed, and a number of others. After those interviews the portal inspector recommended the man who has been appointed as the best qualified for the post, and he was automatically appointed.
The local portal inspector recommended this man in preference to Mr. Hennessy?
Mr. HOGAN
Yes—the portal supervisor did.