asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the number of sub-postmasters (1) in the State, (2) who personally perform the duties of their offices, (3) who personally work in their offices with the help of an assistant or assistants, (4) who do not give any service in the running of their offices, and (5) whose salaries were reduced, and the total of such reductions during the year ended 31st December, 1960; and whether, in connection with his statement in the Dáil on 17th November 1960, that sub-postmasters are not required to give personal service he will give particulars of the rule pertaining to this matter.

The information requested under (1) to (5) is in the form of a tabular statement which, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.

The rule relating to the responsibility of Sub-Postmasters for the work of their offices provides that a Sub-Postmaster must either himself perform the duties of his office or otherwise make suitable provision for their proper performance. The Sub-Postmaster is held responsible for the proper performance of the duties of his office and he is expected as far as possible to exercise personal supervision over them. He must sign all official reports and periodic accounts.

PARTICULARS regarding Sub-Postmasters.

The replies to (2), (3), and (4) represent the best estimate that can be made as exact information is not available.