Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 October 2022
36. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans, if any, to upgrade the INTREO centre in Ennis, County Clare, or to recruit additional staff for this valued facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50382/22]
View answerThe Office of Public Works approached the Department of Social Protection regarding a full retrofit of Block 1, Intreo Centre, Government Buildings, Kilrush Road, Ennis, Co. Clare and a re-modelling of Block 2, Government Buildings, Kilrush Rd., Ennis
In phase 1, redevelopment works will need to be undertaken in Block 2 to accommodate DSP staff from Block 1. It is anticipated that these works will commence within the next 4 weeks with a 4-week completion timeframe.
Phase 2 will consist of the full retrofit and renovation of Block 1. The addition of photo-voltaic panels to Block 1 will result in the building generating power to the extent that it will contribute to the National Grid from the day it becomes operational. The Office of Public Works are yet to confirm a commencement date for phase 2 of the works and it is anticipated that these works will take approximately 12 months to complete.
There will be no disruption to DSP services which will continue to be delivered from Block 2 while works in Block 1 are ongoing.
Staffing levels are regularly reviewed to ensure that the best service is delivered to customers and will continue to be monitored going forward.
