Social Welfare Offices

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 November 2012

Tuesday, 27 November 2012

Questions (367)

Patrick Nulty

Question:

367. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Social Protection if steps will be taken to address the reportedly large queues for “signing-on” at Blanchardstown Social Welfare Local Office; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that those signing on have had to queue outside the office in the open air for a number of hours on occasion; if measures will be put in place to ensure that the numbers of people who have to sign on at the same time will be reviewed at so as to reduce the need for queuing outside; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52319/12]

Written answers

Minister for Social Protection

My Department acknowledges the recent difficulties experienced by our customers when they attend Blanchardstown Social Welfare Local Office on their signing-on day. To address the issue of overcrowding in the public area, we are shortly commencing pilot scheme that will significantly reduce the numbers in the this area of the office at any one time. This should greatly reduce queuing and ensure that no client has to stand outside in future.