asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state whether any barrister has been appointed or retained as counsel to his Department during the term of office of the present Government; and, if so, (a) the name, (b) the date of appointment, (c) the terms of appointment and remuneration, and (d) the total remuneration from the date of appointment to date of each and every person so appointed or retained during the period 19th February, 1948, to date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Appointment of Barrister.
(a) Since the 19th February, 1948, two barristers were nominated as standing counsel to the Department of Posts and Telegraphs— Messrs. A.G. McDowell and T.F. O'Higgins.
(b) Mr. McDowell was nominated standing counsel on 18-3-1948 and, when he ceased, Mr. O'Higgins was nominated on 23-11-1948.
(c) He is required to act as standing counsel to the Department and is paid such fees for each case handled as the Attorney-General shall authorise in accordance with the scale of fees prescribed by the rules and regulations of the Bar. A retaining fee is not paid.
(d) The fees paid to Mr. McDowell amounted to £210 0s. 0d. Those paid, or payable, to Mr. O'Higgins amount to £366 9s. 0d.
Arising out of that reply, is the Minister now satisfied that he is treating Deputy T.F. O'Higgins generously for his services? Was it the Minister's motive in appointing him to ensure that he would not emigrate like the postmaster in Baltinglass?