I propose to take Questions Nos. 42 and 43 together.
My Department is currently providing a service for the unemployed in the Navan area through the agency of a social welfare branch office. Offices of this kind are run by private individuals who are contracted by my Department to provide a limited range of services.
The present branch manager has advised me that she intends to retire next September. She has provided an excellent service over the years and I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her dedication and to wish her well in her retirement.
Managers of branch offices are employed on a contract basis. The staff of the offices are directly employed by the branch managers who are required to engage the necessary clerical assistance to enable them to deal efficiently with the work of the office.