asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state in respect of the postal delivery service the number of postmen who have been replaced by motor van service during the past five years; and the saving, or otherwise, to the Department consequent on this replacement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Postal Delivery Service.
56.
Mr. R. Burke
A total of 679 pedal cycle and foot posts, mainly part-time, were replaced by 324 full-time motorside posts during the five years 1970 to 1974. The net saving to the Department is currently estimated at £195,000 a year. The motorised posts were introduced only on the occurrence of vacancies and there was no displacement of permanent, or long-serving temporary, staff.
It means 300 jobs less. Does this include the capital cost of the motor vans? Is the saving based on actual running costs or does it take into account the capital cost of providing the vans?
Mr. R. Burke
That is a specific which I take it would be included in the total cost.