asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware of the stress under which telephonists in the Fermoy telephone exchange, County Cork, are working due to (i) the inadequate number of trunk outlets available in the exchange and (ii) the inadequate number of switchboards and staff; and the consequent delays and frustrations suffered by subscribers which in turn serves to exacerbate this stress; and if he will take immediate steps to remedy the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fermoy Telephone Exchange.
159.
I am aware of the difficulties at Fermoy exchange as they affect the public and the staff. A contract was placed early in 1971 for the conversion of the exchange to automatic working. A further contract was placed in September, 1971, for a major coaxial cable between Fermoy and Cork. Pending completion of these works in late 1973/early 1974, interim relief will be given by the provision in the next month or so of extra trunk circuits between Cork and Fermoy. In addition direct circuits will be provided in about three months between Mitchelstown and Cork. These will relieve Fermoy exchange of a considerable amount of traffic to and from Mitchelstown. Meanwhile two extra switchboards are being installed and extra staff will be provided to operate them.
Would the Minister agree that the position in Fermoy exchange is chaotic? I am certainly so aware as a result of letters I have got in the last three months. Is the Minister further aware that this morning between 10 o'clock and 12 o'clock the exchange was out of business because there was a promise that extra switchboards would be installed and no one appeared to install them. The exchange was out of business until these people came from Mallow. Furthermore, does the Minister consider the position serious enough to warrant a personal visit by him to see for himself exactly what is going on?
I am aware of what happened in Fermoy this morning and I must say I do not agree with everything the Deputy has said. The report I have is certainly not in agreement with what the Deputy said. Will the Deputy rest assured that the additional switchboards are being installed in Fermoy?
How many?
Two.
Is the Minister aware that wiring has been done for three switchboards and why does he now put in only two? Three are both desirable and necessary to give a reasonable service.
I am advised by the technical experts of my Department that two switchboards will more than adequately cover the situation.
Would the Minister say if he considers the staff in the exchange are being fairly treated and have proper conditions?
I am quite satisfied that the two extra switchboards will more than adequately cover the situation.
That is not the question I asked.