Departmental Properties

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 November 2015

Thursday, 5 November 2015

Questions (79)

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

79. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a former credit union (details supplied) building now that a new Intreo office has been established there; if her Department has identified space within the building that is surplus to its requirements; if this space will be made available for the use of the local community; if her Department has, or will, engage in public consultation on the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38828/15]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection

The development of the Newbridge Intreo Centre involved the relocation of staff and services from five locations which is now complete with 85 staff now in place. All office space in the building is occupied and additional customer service facilities such as Integrated Reception and Public Services Card stations have been developed. In addition, a training and conference space has been fully developed and equipped.

The Department is in regular contact with local groups and organisations and has to date facilitated a number of events for employers and is due to host a Kildare Leader Partnership event later this month. Local management continue to be open to working with local groups in hosting events subject to the Department’s business needs taking priority and ensuring that all security and data protection considerations are adequately addressed.