§ MR. PATRICK O'BRIEN (Kilkenny)To ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster General, whether he is aware that a deputation from the telegraph staff at Belfast asked permission to see the postmaster and surveyor on the 26th ultimo, and that in response to the postmaster's request a statement of the matters complained of was handed to the superintendent of telegraphs on the 30th ultimo: whether that statement has yet reached the postmaster, and whether the postmaster has received the deputation; and, if not, what is the cause of the delay.
(Answer.) Such an application was made to the postmaster, but he asked for certain particulars to be furnished by the memorialists. When this is done he will receive the deputation.—(Post Office.)
MR. PATRICK O'BRIENTo ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster General, whether he is aware that a number of the male telegraphists at Belfast have complained to the postmaster and surveyor of being detained on overtime, and refused an opportunity to obtain refreshments after they had been on duty without food for from five to six hours: whether he is aware that the work necessitating this detention was notified in the Post Office Circulars and admitted of proper provision being made therefor; and can he explain why two telegraphists are charged with insubordination and recommended for special punishment because they protested against such detention and enforced fasting.
364 (Answer.) The Postmaster General is assured that it is not the case that a number of telegraphists have complained, and been treated as alleged. Two telegraphists only were reported for objecting to overtime, and behaving in an insubordinate manner. The matter is still under investigation. I should add that the work necessitating this overtime, which was not excessive, was due to sudden pressure for which previous provision could not be made.—(Post Office.)