asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if there is a scarcity of telephone cable at present; and if he will make a statement on the position of stores and equipment on hand in his Department.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Post Office Stores and Equipment.
39.
There is a scarcity of some sizes of telephone cable at present. This is due mainly to delay in deliveries from manufacturers because of difficulties arising from the energy crisis and from world shortages of certain raw materials.
The rate of delivery from manufacturers has improved recently and stocks are being replenished as fast as possible.
The general position at present is that supplies of the great bulk of telephone stores and equipment are available but a small number of items are in short supply awaiting delivery from contractors.
Is the Minister aware of the fact that some people have paid their subscriptions and have had them returned later, due to a scarcity of telephone cable which I understand was very prevalent in the southern part of the country?
Yes, I think that is correct. Of course, there is also the factor of the very considerable disruption caused by the winter storms with unexpected additional demand for telephone cables.
What are the prospects of having a sufficient supply in the future?
The prospects are quite good.