asked the Minister for Supplies if he will state for what reason, in advertising recently for temporary inspectors, a maximum age of 40 years was fixed for applicants; whether he is aware that this will exclude a large number of persons who have given valuable public service, who are at present out of employment and who have family responsibilities; and if he will reconsider the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Age Limit for Temporary Inspectors.
The upper age limit was fixed at 40 years for the open competition announced in the public Press on the 30th October for the appointment of temporary inspectors in the Department of Supplies. This age limit was considered appropriate by reference to the type of duties on which these inspectors are to be engaged.
Following further consideration, the Government decided to have an extension of the upper age limit to 50 years for candidates who have been granted a certificate of military service under the Military Service Pensions Act, 1924, or a service certificate under the Military Service Pensions Act, 1934. This modification was announced in the public Press on the 6th November.
If it has been possible to consider an upward extension to 50 years, why could not a drop of the age below 40 be considered also, when it is taken into consideration that, if a man is qualified for any of these positions, the fact that he is only 30 years of age ought not to be a barrier? I think a man is as capable of carrying out the duties at 30 years of age as he is at any other age, if he has the necessary qualifications and character.
I understand that 40 years was the upper limit.