asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he has received an application from Denis O'Keeffe, of Castleblayney, for superannuation or other compensation in respect of his life-time service with the Department of Posts and Telegraphs; and, if so, whether any superannuation or grant ex gratia can be made available for this man, who is now destitute.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Superannuation or Gratuity for P.O. Employee.
Mr. O'Keeffe, who was formerly employed as an engineering skilled workman in the Department of Posts and Telegraphs, voluntarily resigned his position in August, 1935, and applied for superannuation. As, at the time of his resignation, Mr. O'Keeffe had not reached the age of 60 and as he was not incapacitated by mental or physical infirmity from discharging the duties of his situation, I regret that he is not eligible for the award of a pension or gratuity.
Is the Minister aware that, on the occasion of Mr. O'Keeffe's resignation, he informed the Post Office authorities that he was not physically able to do his work? He was then examined by the chief medical officer of the Department who took the view that he was able; that Mr. O'Keeffe maintained that he would be three-fourths of his time on sick leave and he did not want to be taking money on that basis, and that rather than spend three-fourths of his time on sick leave he resigned; that he did so resign, being, as he declares, and as his own medical officer declares, physically unfit for work. In the light of this conflict of medical opinion, will the Minister consider Mr. O'Keeffe's case for an ex gratia grant?
I can only consider the chief medical officer's report.
Has the Minister no discretion in this matter of an ex gratia payment in the light of the fact that this man is now destitute?
No, that is not possible because of the fact that he was an established officer.
Will the Minister look into his case and see if any means could be taken to meet it?
The case has been examined from time to time. Various representations have been made, and it has not been found possible to alter the original decision.
Does the Minister realise that this man is now destitute and must go into the county home after spending his life in the service of the Department? Is he not prepared to do anything to rescue him from that?
It would require a change in the Act of Parliament.
It is a hard thing that a man and his wife must go into the county home after he has spent his whole life in the public service.