asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when the automatic telephone system will be operating in Skibbereen, County Cork; how advanced work on the scheme is at present; the reasons for the delay; and whether this system will be in operation in good time for the tourist season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Skibbereen Automatic Exchange.
3.
Skibbereen exchange is not included in current automatisation programme which will take about three years to complete. It will be included in the next programme but I cannot say at this stage when conversion will take place.
Work on the installation of a more modern manual exchange system is in hands and completion is expected within the next three months.
Do I understand from the Minister's reply that it will be some three years before the automatic exchange will be provided in Skibbereen?
The Deputy knows that the automatic exchange programme is proceeding steadily throughout the country and has now reached certain parts of County Cork, including Bandon and Clonakilty. The installation of the new switchboard at Skibbereen will mean that instead of having to ring the exchange by turning the generator handle on the telephone as at present, the exchange will answer when the telephone is lifted. There is also a new co-axial cable being provided between Cork and Skibbereen which will enable a much improved service to be given.
Is the Minister aware that Skibbereen is the capital of the Carberies and consequently an important centre, and is it intended to have this conversion carried out as early as possible?
The programme is continuing progressively throughout the country.