Departmental Offices

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 October 2015

Tuesday, 20 October 2015

Questions (276)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

276. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance for an update of the current operational status of a local Revenue Commissioners' office (details supplied) in County Donegal; the reason a front-desk service at this outlet, which had previously been open to members of the public, has since been suspended; if this closure is permanent; the consultation process which took place prior to a formal decision being made to close the service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36050/15]

Written answers

Minister for Finance

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a customer service desk operated at the Public Services Centre, Donegal until July of this year. The desk was closed in July having regard to the fact that 

- Over the last number of years the provision by Revenue of high quality self service, electronic and telephone service channels has resulted in reduced demand for walk-in counter services by customers.

- There was a very low level demand for service at the Donegal office and the bulk of that demand can be serviced through other channels.

- Revenue provides a walk-in counter service in its main office in Letterkenny.

- The on-going expansion of Revenue's self service offering including the recent launch of the MyAccount application on the Revenue website.

Revenue have advised me that the arrangements at Donegal Town are subject to ongoing monitoring and evaluation and that they are satisfied that local requirements are being met at this time.