John Browne
Ceist:135 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if a blind telephonist is expected to have the leaving certificate before getting employment in county council offices. [19127/01]
Written Answers. - Telephonist Qualifications.
The post of telephonist in local authorities is filled from the normal clerical officer panels. The qualifications for that office include a requirement that candidates have obtained at least a pass in five subjects in the leaving certificate or have passed an examination of at least equivalent standard or have had at least two years experience in a permanent and pensionable post of clerical officer or clerk typist under a local authority or health board. My Department has drawn up proposals to amend the qualifications so that candidates who have relevant experience, as well as those with a leaving certificate, may compete for appointment. My Department is in consultation with IMPACT, the trade union representing clerical grades in local authorities, regarding these proposals.