Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Dec 1991

Vol. 413 No. 9

Written Answers. - Wexford New Social Welfare Office.

Ivan Yates

Question:

182 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Social Welfare (1) when it is planned to go ahead with the promised new social welfare services office in Wexford town in view of the commitment given by his predecessor in this regard; (2) if adequate facilities will be made available for the unemployment and other social welfare recipients to have proper privacy in the local employment exchange; and (3) if he will outline when it is envisaged that the new office will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Social Welfare (Mr. Daly)

The Deputy will be aware that it is intended to transfer 150 staff from the Department of the Environment and the Revenue Commissioners to Wexford town as part of the Government's proposals for further decentralisation.

This project is being handled by the Office of Public Works and it will include a new social welfare services office to replace the existing office at Anne Street. Particular attention will be paid in the design of the new office to the provision of facilities for privacy at the new claims reception area and other points where interviews are conducted.

The Office of Public Works are at present negotiating with the local authority for the acquisition of a site for the decentralistion complex. However, at this stage, I am unable to say when work on the new offices will commence but I am satisfied that everything possible will be done to ensure it starts at the earliest possible date.

In the meantime, the Office of Public Works are negotiating terms for the leasing of temporary alternative accommodation for the employment exchange and I am hopeful that this will be available in the near future.