asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when he proposes to grant full civil rights in respect of participation in political affairs to all his Department's employees.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Civil Servants' Political Participation.
113.
There are staff claims before the Departmental Conciliation Council for the removal of the restrictions on staff in certain grades in the Department participating in politics, and I expect that there will be a report from the council shortly.
I did not quite catch the Minister's reply but I assume that negotiations are going on——
In that case I will repeat the reply for the Deputy's convenience.
I understand that this is being actively considered in the Department at the moment.
It is before the Departmental Conciliation Council.
I take it that a favourable decision will be reached to allow these people to go forward for local elections if they desire to do so next June?
I hope for a favourable outcome but I am precluded from commenting specifically on matters which are before the Departmental Conciliation Council.
I hope the Minister will use his good offices to have a decision expedited.