asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that Mr. P. Fitzsimmons, who was employed as a general man at the Meath County Hospital, Navan, has been dismissed after six years' continuous satisfactory service; that the post was advertised and this man dismissed on the grounds that he failed to pass an oral test; and, if so, whether he will take steps to have the man reinstated permanently.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath County Hospital.
I am not aware that Mr. Fitzsimmons has been dismissed from the post of temporary general man in the County Hospital, Navan. I have no functions in this matter other than to approve of the creation of the permanent office of general man. The filling of the post is entirely a matter for the County Manager as the office is a minor office and any appointment thereto does not require my sanction.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, is the Minister aware that Mr. Fitzsimmons is a man who has had ten years' service in this post, which is that of general labourer at Navan Hospital, six years of which have been continuous? Mr. Fitzsimmons is now to be replaced by a non-resident of County Meath on the plea that the non-resident is more qualified to fill the post of general labourer. In view of the injustice to Mr. Fitzsimmons would the Minister direct that an investigation of this matter be carried out?
I am informed in regard to this case that the gentleman who holds the post at the moment has been found to be unsatisfactory. I have not received up to the present any representations in regard to his case. If the Deputy feels there has been an injustice I would, of course, be glad to have the case examined if he will supply me with the information.