Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Jun 1970

Vol. 247 No. 6

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lismore Post Office Assistant.

38.

Mr. Treacy

asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he is aware of the great concern in Lismore at the dismissal without notice or recompense of the assistant at Lismore sub-post office, County Waterford (name supplied), although she had given 40 years excellent service; and that the Town Commissioners and people of the area are anxious that he should arrange for the investigation of the matter; and whether he will take such steps as are necessary to enable his Department to ensure that sub-post office staff enjoy proper conditions of service and wages and normal rights as regards notice and to ensure that adequate service is provided at sub-post offices.

39.

Mr. Treacy

asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if a person (name supplied) employed at Lismore sub-post office who was dismissed without notice or recompense after 40 years excellent service is entitled to redundancy payments; and if he will investigate the manner of the dismissal; and if he will state what redress is available to a person treated in this manner.

Mr. Molloy

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 39 together.

Assistants in sub-offices are employed directly by sub-postmasters, and their conditions of employment are a matter for negotiation between themselves and individual sub-postmasters, subject, of course, to the requirements of any relevant legislation. An assistant who loses her employment has the same remedies as other employees in a similar position. I cannot say whether the person named in the question is entitled to benefit under the Redundancy Payments Act, as that is a matter to be determined in accordance with the statutory provisions, but it would certainly be open to her to make a claim in the matter.

The present arrangements for ensuring that an adequate service is given at sub-post offices are regarded as satisfactory, and any complaints received are investigated thoroughly.

Mr. Davern

In view of the fact that the people in this area are extremely worried regarding the dismissal of this woman, would the Minister personally make some inquiries in this matter? This woman was suffering from a prolonged illness prior to her dismissal.

Mr. Molloy

I will convey the Deputy's request to the Minister.