asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the number of applicants for the post of subpostmaster in Capwell, Cork, in November, 1960; if all of the applicants were interviewed, and the basis upon which the eventual appointment was made; and if at the time of appointment the successful applicant had suitable premises for the purpose of carrying out the duties of subpostmaster.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Capwell (Cork) Subpostmaster.
76.
There were five applicants for the post of subpostmaster in Capwell, Cork. Four were interviewed; the fifth had been interviewed shortly before in connection with a previous application. The person appointed was selected as being the most suitable applicant. When applying for the appointment the successful applicant offered suitable premises which she expected to be able to provide. Subsequently she was unable to provide these particular premises but instead provided other equally suitable accommodation.
77.
asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the name of the successful applicant for the position as subpostmaster at Capwell Post Office, Cork; whether this person had been interviewed a short time previously with a number of others, and had been found unsuitable; and if he will state the qualifications in which the candidate was originally found to be lacking but is now deemed to possess.
Mrs. Brigid Butler was the successful applicant and was considered suitable when the vacancy was first advertised.
Is it not a fact that the person appointed was one of the original applicants? All the original applicants, including the person now appointed, were deemed to be unsuitable and the post had to be re-advertised? Is it not a fact that the person now appointed re-entered on the second occasion? As well as that, a competitor, an existing subpostmaster, who must be carrying out his work to the satisfaction of the Minister and his Department, was turned down in favour of the person appointed, who was deemed to be unsuitable and unqualified on the first occasion.
The Deputy must not have heard the answer I gave to the question he asked. I said:
Mrs. Brigid Butler was the successful applicant and was considered suitable when the vacancy was first advertised.
Can the Minister say why she was not appointed in the first instance?
The Deputy did not ask me the reason why.
The Deputy is asking now.
The Deputy did not ask the reason why the Board decided to re-advertise this office. It was not for the reason alleged by the Deputy.
I think the Deputy might now ask for the reason and, with your permission, Sir, I propose to raise this matter on the adjournment.
The Chair will communicate with the Deputy.