asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is satisfied that there is sufficient accommodation in the new sub-post office which was opened recently at Messrs. Williams, Tallaght; and if he has received any complaints concerning overcrowding, particularly on days when social welfare benefits are being paid out.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tallaght (Dublin) Sub-Post Office.
9.
I have received no complaints about overcrowding at the sub-post office referred to by the Deputy on days when social welfare payments are being made. The Deputy will appreciate that I have no function about the accommodation facilities at sub-post offices as this is a matter for An Post.
I am surprised at that reply because on at least one or two occasions I discussed with the Minister the question of accommodation and the queues outside the sub-post office. The information I divulged to the Minister was quite clear and definite and I am surprised something was not done about it. I admit I have not been to the sub-post office since Christmas but it is well known that people have to queue and that on occasions they have to wait outside the premises.
In reply to inquiries, the authorities at the headquarters of An Post informed the Department that they have received no complaints about overcrowding at that sub-post office. This is one of eight offices serving the area and it was opened in June 1985. However, in view of what the Deputy has said we will keep the matter under examination.
I appreciate that this is one of eight offices. I hope the Minister realises that the Tallaght area has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country. Surely that point must be considered?
As the Deputy knows, the facilities in the Tallaght area have been improved substantially in the past few years. There are now eight offices to serve the area but if it is felt that these offices are not adequate we will take steps to see what can be done.