asked the Minister for Local Government what the cause of the delay is in dealing with reconstruction grants in the South West Cork area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - South West Cork Reconstruction Grants.
80.
In the administration of housing grants, the whole of Cork City and County is dealt with as a unit. There has been an increase in the volume of cases arising for inspection in this area in the present financial year. Difficulties have, in the same period, been encountered in keeping the Department's inspectorial staff up to strength. It has, however, been found possible since September last to send three additional Inspectors to Cork and the position has thereby been substantially improved. I am trying at present to widen the scope of the technical staff available for this work throughout the country. Our difficulties arise out of a current shortage in engineering personnel generally.