asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state (a) whether a rural postman has been appointed to fill the vacancy in Ballyglass area, Claremorris, County Mayo, arising out of the retirement, under the age limit, of Mr. Finnerty; (b) if so, the name of the man appointed; (c) whether the appointment was made as the result of a competitive examination; (d) if so, how many applicants sat for the examination, and what was the result in each case; and (e) whether he is satisfied that the man appointed was the one best qualified from among the applicants for the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Appointment of Rural Postman.
Mr. George Doyle has been temporarily appointed to the part-time postmanship rendered vacant at Ballyglass by the retirement of Mr. John Finnerty.
In accordance with the normal procedure a candidate was selected through the local employment exchange. Six candidates were nominated by the exchange. I am satisfied that the man selected was the most suitable for the temporary appointment.
There is no set competitive examination for part-time or auxiliary postmen and there never has been. Former employment on this work has never conferred any claim to appointment and this is made clear on first employment.
Would the Minister say if Irish is a necessary qualification for the post?
Yes, and not only he, but several of the candidates, had the necessary qualification.
Had the successful candidate?
Yes.
I was merely asking for information.