asked the Minister for Social Welfare the number of telephone lines serving his Department; and if, in view of the fact that the lines are almost always engaged, he will seek the provision of additional lines.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Departmental Telephone Lines.
22.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the headquarters offices of my Department in Dublin which are served by a total of 70 telephone exchange lines available to the public as follows:
Áras Mhic Dhiarmada, Store Street: Telephone No. 786444 (40 lines).
D'Olier House, D'Olier Street: Telephone No. 787155 (20 lines).
Phibsboro Tower, Phibsboro: Telephone No. 300922 (10 lines).
I have already consulted the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs regarding the improvement of the telephone system in my Department and discussions are being held between officials of our two Departments with a view to having a new improved system installed as early as possible.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that it is very difficult to get a reply from the Department of Social Welfare? The number always seems to be engaged. When does he expect that a decision will be reached in regard to improving the service?
I appreciate the difficulty which the Deputy and the public at large may experience. It is probably due to all the increased benefits we have brought into operation.
It is due to the long delay in dealing with applications.
I am conscious of the need for an improved telephone system within the Department. At the moment it is being discussed by officials of my Department and officials of the Department of Posts and Telegraphs.