asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that there is a serious shortage of spare wires in the underground cables in Terenure, and that it is impossible for people living in the Ashdale Road area to have telephones installed; and what steps, if any, he proposes to take to rectify the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Terenure Underground Cables.
The district mentioned is one of a number in the Dublin City area where applications for telephones have been deferred pending the laying of additional underground cables. It will take a considerable time to carry out underground schemes in all the districts in need of relief, particularly now that such work is restricted because of capital difficulties. The number of waiting applications in the Ashdale Road district is not abnormal. It is hoped to complete a relief scheme there within the next 12 months.
In view of the fact that the telephone service is one part of the Minister's Department which shows a substantial profit annually, does the Minister not think it would be possible to expedite the work for the advantage of telephone applicants or users?
All I can say is that I am in complete agreement with the Deputy in regard to the attitude that might be adopted by the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs, but I would point out again that the present position has been brought about by the availability of money for the coming year and that the Estimate arrived at is the Estimate arrived at before I became Minister.
The Minister has an opportunity of changing it, if he wants to.
If the Deputy will tell me where to find the money, I do not mind changing it.
It was changed in the Office of Public Works.