asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware that a telegram, sent out from Swinford Post Office, County Mayo, on 28th July, 1947, to inform Michael Gallagher, Meelan, Dooega, Achill Sound, of the death of his son, did not reach its destination until midday on 29th July, 1947, thereby causing much inconvenience and expense to the parents of the deceased; if he will state the reasons for the delay in the delivery of the telegram; and also, whether he is satisfied that the reasons given adequately explain the delay.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Delivery of Telegram.
I have looked into this matter and I find that, due to an interruption in telegraphic communication with Achill Sound on the 28th July following a severe thunderstorm, the telegram in question did not reach Achill Sound Post Office until 7.26 p.m. at which time the office was closed for public business. Nevertheless, the telegram was sent out for delivery without delay. The messenger, however, had to return to the office without effecting delivery owing to intense fog and severe flooding which had rendered the roads impassable.
On the following morning, 29th July, the services of a messenger not being obtainable, the telegram was sent out by postman at 9.15 a.m. and delivered about 11 a.m.
In view of the abnormal conditions which obtained the delay in delivery of the telegram would appear to have been unavoidable.