§ Mr. NANNETTIasked whether in the recent promotions of postmen in Dublin to head and assistant postmen the positions were, in three cases, given to junior men numbering 152, 162, and 183 on the seniority list; what steps were taken to ensure that among the men passed over there were none who were qualified by character and ability for these positions; whether nearly all of those passed over were Roman Catholics, while the three junior men promoted were Protestants; and if he will take steps to ensure that senior men are not passed over without proper inquiry, and that Roman Catholic postmen get their fair share of promotion at the Dublin office in future?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELIn accordance with the usual procedure invitations were issued to the postmen generally to apply for the vacant allowances, and fifty-nine applications were received. The officers selected occupied respectively the following places on the list of applicants:—9th, 12th, 20th, 21st, 32nd, 36th, 39th. They were regarded as the best qualified for the efficient performance of the superior duties. I am assured that the officer responsible for the selections had no knowledge of the religion of any of the applicants, and as no inquiries are made on this point, I am not aware what proportion of the postmen who have been promoted are Roman Catholics and Protestants respectively.
§ Mr. NANNETTIWill the right hon. Gentleman make inquiry as to whether the facts that have been published are correct or not?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELNo; I think it is very undesirable to inquire into the religious beliefs of Post Office servants.
§ Mr. NANNETTIAs I know that there is general dissatisfaction on this matter—it is painful to me to ask these questions—and that it has caused great complaint in the City of Dublin, will the right hon. Gentleman make inquiry and see that justice is done?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELThe Secretary to the Post Office in Ireland belongs to the Roman Catholic faith, and I cannot 1318 believe that there is any prejudice against Roman Catholics.