asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will take steps to increase the number of operatives in the telegram service; if he is aware that an engaged tone only could be obtained from 7.25 p.m. until 7.48 p.m. on 20th March, 1967; and what he will do to prevent this happening in the future.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Telegram Service Operatives.
32.
The staffing of the Central Telegraph Office is under examination at present. The number of operators on duty in the Phonogram Section is fixed by reference to the traffic normally offering at the particular time and it varies between 24 during exceptionally busy periods and four during quieter hours. Traffic after 7 p.m. is usually light and on the day mentioned by the Deputy four operators were on duty between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. This is adequate to handle the traffic at that time and records show that there was no exceptional pressure on the evening in question.
Up to 8 p.m. persons dialling "39" get through within ten seconds if an operator is free; otherwise they get an engaged tone. On occasions when traffic exceeds the normal level for the time of the day it may be necessary to make several attempts before getting through to the Phonogram Section. In order to reduce the number of ineffective calls to "39", arrangements are being made so that the majority of those who cannot get through immediately will be advised of the busy conditions and will be asked to give their telephone numbers so that they may be called back as soon as an operator is free.