asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state his reason for appointing, to the post office in Moneygall, a person who had no service in the Defence Forces, when an ex-sergeant of the Defence Forces, with an exemplary record, was rejected for the position.

Before making the appointment I gave very careful consideration to the claims and qualifications of all the candidates. I am satisfied that the lady appointed was the best and most suitable in all respects, especially having regard to suitability of premises. Other things being equal, a certain preference is given to ex-members of the Defence Forces.

Is it not a disgusting fraud to tell people, when we wanted them to join the Army, that we would think of them after the crisis was over, and, if they were unemployed, exert ourselves to employ them, and then find that a corrupt, rotten, political organisation could deprive such men——

The Deputy should ask a question and not make a political speech.

Does the Minister not think it disgusting that a man serving all through the emergency in the Army and who gravely prejudices his prospects by doing so, should be set aside in order to enable a dirty political job to be carried out in Moneygall?

I think the Deputy is making a disgusting statement in this House.

Does the Minister not think it is disgusting?

The Deputy should shut his mouth.

I have not the least intention of shutting my mouth, and the Parliamentary Secretary need not hope I will. Your filthy conduct will be exposed.