asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the manner in which casual labourers in his Department are given permanent appointments; whether consideration is given to seniority or service in the Defence Forces; and how many persons will be promoted to the packer and porter grade in the next year.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Post Office Casual Labourers.
12.
Casual labourers employed in my Department are not usually considered for permanent appointments but some vacancies for unestablished packer and porter in the Stores Branch of my Department are filled by promotion of casual labourers employed in that Branch. Selection is based on suitability for the job but, provided they are fully suitable, senior men are given preference. Service in the Defence Forces is not taken into consideration. It is not possible to say with any degree of accuracy how many persons will be promoted to unestablished packer and porter in the next year.
Having regard to the desirability of providing suitable employment opportunities for ex-Army men, would the Minister consider giving this work to them?
While my reply does state that Army service is not taken into account, for promotion purposes, such service is taken into account for two years after they leave the Forces in respect of subordinate employment.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say if that is still the regulation? That regulation has been cancelled for the past 12 months and it is not true that preference is given to ex-Army personnel now.
They give it in County Meath.