asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he is aware that the county manager of Kerry, before making appointments for such positions as home assistance officers, has applicants interviewed by a selection board in the first instance; and, if so, if he will state whether this procedure is required or necessary.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Appointment of Home Assistance Officers.
The Local Government (Officers) Regulations, 1943, made under Part II of the Local Government Act, 1941, lay down the procedure to be followed in connection with the appointment of assistance officers. These regulations provide that, in general, the selection shall be by means of a competitive examination (not necessarily written), and I am satisfied that this is the best method which can be adopted. Qualifications for the post of assistance officer are declared by me, but individual appointments are dealt with locally, and I have no functions in regard to such appointments.