asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reasons which led to the siting of an unemployment onestop centre at Kilbarrack, Dublin 5; if he will outline the arrangements for security at the centre; the form payment will take on those entitled; when the centre will open; and the proposals which exist for the provision of other similar facilities on the northside of Dublin.
Written Answers. - Kilbarrack (Dublin) Social Welfare Offices.
74.
I am fully committed to continuing the policy which I have been following of providing new offices incorporating the most modern designs and technology to bring the services of my Department to applicants in the areas in which they reside. In that context, areas on the northside of Dublin have been identified as requiring new social welfare services offices in order to improve the service to the public. Apart from Kilbarrack, it is intended, as resources permit, to provide new offices in the Finglas, Harmonstown, Artane/ Coolock, Swords and Blanchardstown areas.
For a number of years my Department has, through the Office of Public Works, sought suitable premises or a site in the Kilbarrack area. I was particularly pleased when, last year, the premises at present being adapted for use in Kilbarrack became available. The location of the premises and the space available were regarded as very suitable for the establishment of an office which would meet the criteria I have outlined.
Work on the new social welfare services office is now at an advanced stage and I expect that it will be handed over to my Department about the middle of December. In accordance with normal practice, services at the office will be introduced on a phased basis. I am glad to be able to inform the Deputy that the first phase which will include the provision of an information service and the acceptance of new claims, should commence before Christmas.
While unemployed claimants will initially be paid in cash at the new office, my Department is actively considering the introduction of non-cash payment methods which I hope will be available at this office in due course.
The security arrangements and general design of the new office will be of the same high standards provided in other new social welfare services offices recently completed. These standards have been developed in consultation with the Garda and the fire and security section of the Office of Public Works.