asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state the number of applicants for the position of sub-postmaster at Rathdrum, County Wicklow; the qualifications and age of the applicant appointed; whether there are any specified ages laid down by his Department for such positions; and if he will make a statement as to the appointment at Rathdrum.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Appointment of Sub-postmaster.
There were two applicants for the position of sub-postmaster, Rathdrum. The candidate selected was slightly under 24 years of age at date of appointment, was suitable in every respect, and provided adequate and central accommodation. The only other applicant was 21 years of age. The normal age limits for the position of sub-postmaster are 21 to 60 years. A candidate over 60 is, occasionally, appointed when a fully suitable applicant within the normal age limits is not forthcoming.
The Minister has stated that the candidate who was successful was slightly under the age of 24 at the date of his appointment. Would the Minister state when he was over 23? I have asked for his age.
He is actually 24 now.
Is the Minister aware that due to the fact that Deputy Flanagan got 10,000 votes in Leix-Offaly at the last election his head is so swelled that not alone is he O/C of Leix-Offaly but that he is also O/C——
That is a separate question.
That seems to have struck a sore point on the Fianna Fáil Benches.