asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs to state what arrangements are made for the delivery of telegrams in Baltinglass and towns of similar size; and on what basis, population or otherwise, this arrangement obtains.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Delivering Telegrams in Towns.
Delivery of telegrams from Baltinglass Post Office is effected by casual messengers paid at standard rates per message based on distance. The arrangements for delivery of telegrams in any particular town are not based on population. The average number of telegrams for delivery and the extent of the area served determine whether delivery should be provided for by casual messengers or by the employment of regular messengers.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary satisfied that that arrangement is justified when a contract has been entered into for the delivery of these telegrams?
I do not understand what the Deputy means by a contract entered into. It is an arrangement carried out depending upon the conditions existing in the local post office.
I suggest that the acceptance of a fee for the delivery of a telegram is in effect a contract for the delivery of that telegram.
Telegrams are always delivered.