Vol. 204 No. 8
asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the circumstances under which the post of permanent postman at Rockchapel, County Cork, was given to a single man when, amongst the applicants for the post, there were married men with families ranging from two to five children.
29.
asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that, at the Rockchapel post office, County Cork, a single man was recently appointed postman in preference to three married men who applied; and that one of the married men (name and address supplied), who applied for this post had six children under thirteen years, had been constantly employed on temporary postman's work at the Rockchapel post office, is not the owner of any land and is now in receipt of unemployment assistance; and if he will carry out an investigation into the circumstances of the appointment of a single man with other means to this post, and ascertain the reasons why married men who were fully qualified were not appointed.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 29 together.
The vacancy for an auxiliary postman at Rockchapel, County Cork, was filled in the usual way from a list of employment exchange nominees and the man selected was the most suitable qualified person.
It would be contrary to practice to furnish any information regarding the claims or qualifications of applicants as this would entail disclosing information obtained in confidence concerning these persons.
Does the Minister consider it right and fair that the applications of three married men should be rejected and that this single man should get the post?
The vacancy at Rockchapel arose on the resignation of Mr. John Murphy on 18th April last. Mr. Murphy had been absent on sick leave. He is 71 years of age and had been auxiliary postman there since 1911. I appointed his son, Mr. Thomas Murphy, to the post. I consider it was reasonable enough to appoint Mr. Thomas Murphy to the post.
Because he was the son?
Is the Minister aware that one of the married men referred to had already been recommended by the labour exchange for this post, that he had served in a temporary capacity for 30 days, that he was a member of the LDF and had given excellent service during the Emergency?
I am precluded from giving any of the information I got from the labour exchange in reports on persons qualified to fill these posts.
In view of the unsatisfactory reply of the Minister, I wish to give notice that I intend raising this matter on the Adjournment.
I shall communicate with the Deputy.
