asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the exact circumstances under which an appointment to the post of permanent postman at Rearcross post office, Newport, County Tipperary was given to a single man who is possessor of a farm and shop in preference to the auxiliary postman who had held the post to the satisfaction of all for some time previously, and who is the sole support of a wife and six children, five of schoolgoing age and one younger; if it is the rule or the normal practice of his Department to give preference in such posts to married men with children; and, if so, if he will state why this practice was departed from in the case referred to.
Written Answer. - Rearcross (Tipperary) Postman.
44.
The vacancy for an auxiliary postman at Rearcross, Newport, County Tipperary, was filled in the usual way from a list of employment exchange nominees and the man selected was the most suitable qualified person.
Other things being equal, married men with children are given special consideration. It would be contrary to practice to furnish any information regarding the claims or qualifications of applicants, as this would entail disclosing information obtained in confidence concerning these persons.