asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware of the onerous conditions under which sub-postmasters carry out their work; that the hours of duties of some sub-postmasters are from 6.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays, and from 9 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. on Sundays, without any provision for half-holidays or relief in case of illness; that dissatisfaction generally is expressed in the service at the inadequate remuneration which sub-postmasters receive, averaging 3½d. per hour, out of which they must pay the rent of the office and defray the cost of lighting and heating and the services of an assistant to relieve them at least at meal times; and whether, in view of this dissatisfaction, he will set up a Departmental committee to investigate the conditions of sub-postmasters and report thereon, and make available to the Dáil the results of the investigation; and, further, whether, in view of the high cost of living and the added responsibilities of sub-postmasters at present, owing to the increased traffic in Post Office orders and pensions and the forthcoming additional burden of dealing with children's allowances, he is proposing to increase the remuneration of sub-postmasters and/or to take other measures to improve their condition.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Post Office Sub-Postmasters.
I am aware of the conditions and hours of work of sub-postmasters, and that some dissatisfaction has been expressed at the remuneration paid. I am not convinced, however, that there are under present conditions exceptional grounds for such dissatisfaction. While the position has, no doubt, been affected by circumstances arising out of the emergency, it has to be pointed out that an emergency bonus was granted to sub-postmasters as from 1st January last, in common with other State employees. I am afraid that I can hold out very little hope of any further improvement while existing financial conditions obtain. Sub-postmasters are not supposed to depend, and do not in practice depend, on the Post Office for their sole income. In most cases they engage in business of some kind. Sub-postmasters receive additional remuneration for increased ordinary traffic, and for new classes of work.
As I have had this matter under careful and sympathetic review for a long time I am not prepared to adopt the Deputy's suggestion for the setting up of a Departmental committee. All relevant information is already available to the Department, and the setting up of a committee would serve no useful purpose.