§ 29. Colonel ASHLEYasked why, when ex-Service men apply for employment to the Control Section, Army Pay Office, Beggars Bush Barracks, Dublin, they are informed that they cannot be engaged under any circumstances as civilians?
§ Mr. FORSTERThere appears to be some misunderstanding locally. The only reason why ex-Service men cannot at present be engaged as civilian clerks in the office of the Regimental Pay Office. Dublin, is that there are no vacancies; but when there are, preference will be given to suitable discharged Service men.
§ Colonel ASHLEYAm I to understand that these ex-Service men cannot be engaged in the Regimental Pay Office, Dublin, under any circumstances as civilians?
§ Mr. FORSTERAs far as my information goes that is not the answer which was given. I am told that the answer was that extra civilian clerks could not be taken on without reference to the War Office, and they could not be taken on because the establishment was full.
§ Colonel ASHLEYMay I send the right hon. Gentleman a copy of the official answer sent by the officer?
§ Mr. FORSTERYes.