asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the considerable concern amongst Garda Síochána pensioners caused by the refusal to appoint some members of the Garda Síochána Pensioners Association with previous satisfactory experience as presiding officers and poll clerks in the last general election; why the applications of such persons were refused; why appointments which were made were subsequently withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Pensioners as Poll Clerks.
13.
I am not so aware. The appointment of presiding officers and poll clerks at a Dáil election is the responsibility of the returning officer. I have no function in the matter and no information on the points raised.
Would the Minister make inquiries in County Donegal and in County Laois where he will find the respective county registrars asked Garda pensioners if they were members of the Association and, on learning that they were, either refused to appoint them or withdrew from them appointments already given to them?
I do not believe a word of it in regard to Donegal and I doubt it very much in respect of the other county.
The persons concerned are Messrs. Walsh and Ennis. If the Minister makes these inquiries, he will find what I say is true. If the Minister receives the evidence from the complainants in question, will he take steps to ensure that people are not victimised in future?
It surprises me that, if there was any such discrimination or even a suggestion of it, I have no record of it from any source until the Deputy put down the question, and this is supposed to have happened some months ago.
Methinks the Minister protests his innocence too much.
This is something in relation to which I have no power or function, whether it be in Donegal or Laois, nor have I exercised, or attempted to exercise, any function in such places.
The Minister's political friends have exercised the powers and functions for him.