asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware that much dissatisfaction exists among sub-postmasters arising out of (1) the inadequacy of the remuneration in many cases, and (2) differential treatment of offices with no corresponding difference in the burden of the duties to be performed; and if he will cause a sub-committee to inquire into these matters with a view to removing existing injustices and inequalities.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Remuneration of Sub-Postmasters.
I am aware that some dissatisfaction exists among sub-postmasters in regard to their remuneration, but I do not consider that there is very material justification for it. However, for some time past I have been examining the matter, which is complicated by the variety of conditions under which these officers work.
The reason for the differential salary treatment as between sub-offices is that a good number of sub-postmasters appointed before the change of Government and up to 1924 still retain the scales which until then were in force. A lower scale of remuneration was then introduced as being more appropriate to this country.
I am not prepared to set up a sub-committee to inquire into the matter as I do not think that this would serve any useful purpose.
I have already stated in answer to a question on the 3rd February that certain bonus awards were being prepared for these officers following the Government's decision to grant emergency bonus increases to public servants.