asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if it is a fact that the business of the post office at Ballineen, County Cork, was carried on for a period of 49 years by a Mrs. O'Keeffe, and when the latter sold the interest in her premises the post office was transferred to a Mrs. O'Neill in another part of the village; and if he will explain why the change was made from the old-established centre; (1) were the new premises more suitable than the old, and in what respect, or (2) was the person who bought the interest in Mrs. O'Keeffe's premises a less suitable person to conduct a village post office, and why, or (3) was the Minister influenced by local representations made to him in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ballineen Post Office.
It is a fact that Mrs. O'Keeffe was connected with the business of the Ballineen Post Office for 49 years and that she was the subpostmistress of that office for 43 years. When Mrs. O'Keeffe resigned, the office was advertised in the usual way and the claims of all persons who applied for the sub-postmastership were fully considered.
I am satisfied that the appointment was given to the best qualified candidate whose premises are quite suitable for post office business.