asked the Minister for Social Welfare in view of the fact that no provision has been made in this year's budget to reduce the numbers of unemployed, if he will provide adequate buildings to enable those who are unemployed through no fault of their own, to receive their social welfare entitlements in a humane and dignified manner, rather than being exposed to the elements as is the case in most large urban centres, throughout the country.
Written Answers. - Employment Exchange Facilities.
147.
It is not accepted that unemployed applicants are being exposed to the elements in large urban centres throughout the country. The numbers of persons availing of the Department's services at employment exchanges is kept under constant review and this is reflected in the number of new employment exchanges opened during recent times. Seven new exchanges were opened within the last four years and a further seven new offices will be opened within the next 12 months or so. In addition extensive alterations were undertaken at nine major offices and further alterations are proposed for other offices in the near future.
Every effort is made to ensure that applicants are paid their entitlements in a humane and dignified manner. The payment system is designed to accommodate each applicant in accordance with his or her particular signing time. It will be appreciated that it is most important that applicants adhere to their signing times to avoid congestion and the need to queue when attending at their local offices.