asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state whether a vacancy exists at present for a sub-postmaster in Swinford Post Office; whether this is the vacancy advertised in the public Press; and, if so, whether he will state the number of applicants for the position and the qualifications of each applicant; whether an appointment has been made; and, if so, whether he will state the qualifications and experience of the appointee, and if any applicant had previous experience of post office administration.

The sub-postmastership of Swinford is not vacant at present. It was vacant recently and an appointment has been made. The vacancy was not advertised in the public Press. It was advertised in the usual manner. There were 12 applicants, five of whom had had previous experience of post office work. The qualifications of each candidate were fully considered and the person appointed was the most suitable of the applicants. The usual qualifications looked for in candidates for the position of sub-postmaster are general suitability, suitability of premises, financial stability and ability to provide for the proper performance of the work.

Will the Minister say if qualifications are necessary?

I have given the Deputy the qualifications which we require.

I mean qualifications in post office administration, apart from integrity and honesty.

We look for integrity and honesty.

And experience in administration?

That is not necessary.

Therefore you can put in a "dud" who knows nothing about how to run a post office?

If they have a knowledge of general administration or good business capacity that is sufficient for us.

Is it in order for a Deputy to remain seated while asking a question, or for the Minister to remain seated while answering it?

Is it in order for the Minister to remain seated?

I have also drawn attention to the fact that the Minister remained seated.

No. Deputies should rise when addressing the House.

Am I to accept it from the Minister's statement that a good blacksmith or a good farmer would be suitable for the administration of a post office?

Why not?

The Deputy is a member of the Farmers' Party-is he not?

The Minister for Local Government should keep quiet.