§ 41. Mr. DELANYasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that a vacancy arose some fifteen months ago for an established postman at Geashill, King's County; that the position was applied for by Thomas Coyle, who had been rural auxiliary for a period of sixteen years; and that, notwithstanding that Coyle had an unblemished record, an ex-soldier was sent from Kilkenny to fill the position, who, after a trial, found that he was unable to do the duty and retired; whether he is aware that another Army Reserve man was sent to Geashill on the 29th ultimo, a tailor by trade, who has no experience of the duties of postman; and, considering that Thomas Coyle has given sixteen years of faithful and efficient service as rural auxiliary, will he see that this second ex-soldier is withdrawn and Coyle promoted to the permanent vacancy?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Herbert Samuel)Vacancies for established postmen are reserved for men who have served as boy messengers in the Post Office or as soldiers or sailors. Auxiliary postmen are sometimes appointed when they have served for a number of years and their own walk has so grown as to justify an established appointment being created. This was not the case in this instance, and as Mr. Coyle has not served in any of the capacities mentioned he has no claim to the vacancy, and I am unable to comply with the hon. Member's request. Mr. Coyle's auxiliary duty remains unaffected.