asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if his attention has been drawn to a statement by the general secretary of the IPU at the union's conference in Westport, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Post Office Security.
413.
Yes. The safety of postmasters, their families and assistants is a matter of great concern to my Department and the security of cash and stocks, while very important, must take second place to this. Total safety or security, in so widespread a service as the sub-post office system provides, would be very difficult to achieve, but arrangements have been made by agreement with the union for the provision of protective and preventive aids. Liaison is maintained with the Garda authorities to provide surveillance of sub-post offices. The question of improving the security position at sub-post offices is regularly reviewed and certain aspects of the matter are currently being discussed at the Postmaster's Conciliation Council.
414.
asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the total cost of producing the telephoning directory (Parts 1 and 2) setting out the cost of preparation, up-dating and printing and distribution.
The telephone directory is produced under contract and it would be contrary to establised practice to disclose information about contract prices.
Departmental costs for preparation and up-dating of the 1982 issue, Parts 1 and 2, were about £500,000 and for distribution and warehousing costs are expected to be about £200,000.