asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will now establish a scheme of independent arbitration between his Department and the subpostmasters' union; and if he will indicate what action is taken and by whom in matters on which disagreement has been recorded under the present system.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arbitration for Subpostmasters.
80.
In regard to the provision of arbitration I would refer the Deputy to the reply which I gave him to a similar question on 17th November, 1960. I have nothing to add to that reply.
Disagreement has not been recorded so far on any Union claim discussed by the Subpostmasters' Consultative Council but in the event of disagreement on a particular issue no further action would be taken by the Department.
Do I understand from the Minister that he declines to set up a scheme of independent arbitration?
The Deputy knows that arbitration was mooted by the union in 1949 and again in 1956. There were certain reasons advanced then against arbitration for subpostmasters. These reasons are still considered valid.
Does the Minister think it fair that the officials of his Department—in reality, the Minister himself—should be judge and jury in relation to questions raised by subpostmasters all over the country?
There has not been any disagreement yet on the Consultative Council.
Surely they are entitled to the same consideration as Government officials all over the country.