asked the Minister for Finance if in view of the great hardship which the rule causes, he will relieve unemployed applicants for positions as postmen of the obligation to pay the sum of fifteen shillings in stamps with their applications.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Applications for Positions as Postmen.
24.
Mr. Ryan
Temporary postmen are recruited from persons registered at the employment exchanges. Applicants for these posts are not required to pay any application fee. The Deputy is apparently referring to the open competition currently being held by the Civil Service Commissioners for pensionable positions as postman.
It has for many years been the Commissioners' policy—with which I am in full agreement—to charge application fees at all open competitions held by them. Not only do the fees reduce the charge falling on the taxpayer in respect of the expenses of the Commissioners but they serve to keep candidature within reasonable bounds and so avoid extra expense and delay in making appointments. It would not be feasible to discriminate on the lines suggested by the Deputy in favour of any particular group of candidates at the competition.
Apart from the 15/-, if he passes he must then pay £1 for a medical examination. That represents £1 15s. 0d. from an unemployed man. Would the Minister consider reducing that sum? Doctors must make a bundle at £1 a time.