asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs why no steps were taken by his Department for a period of five days to repair a telephone line (details supplied) which was reported out of order on 27th August 1965; whether the subscribers concerned will be given a remission of rent in respect of that period; whether they have been charged with the cost of the several calls made requesting repairs; and, if so, the cost of such calls.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Repair of Telephone Line.
176.
It is incorrect to suggest that no action was taken in respect of the complaints.
The telephone was reported out of order on 27th, 30th and 31st August. On each occasion it was found that the line was held in the engaged condition because a caller to the number had not cleared down after a call. The line was released at the exchange and service restored on each occasion.
The telephone was also reported out of order on 1st September. The trouble was traced to an apparatus fault and this was cleared immediately.
No remission of rental is allowed in respect of interruption of service for short periods.
Calls made to the exchange for the purpose of reporting faults are not charged for.