asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the number of (a) telephone kiosks, (b) letterboxes and (c) telegraph poles on the footpaths in the towns of Longford, Mullingar and Athlone.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Longford-Westmeath Post Office Installations.
6.
The information requested is as follows:—
Telephone Kiosks: Longford, 5; Mullingar, 6; Athlone, 7.
Letterboxes: Longford, 5; Mullingar, 6; Athlone, 5.
Telegraph Poles: Longford, 42; Mullingar, 104; Athlone, 50.
Is the Minister aware that the placing of all those services, or obstructions, on the public towpaths makes the appearance of those towns very untidy and will he take steps in future, in so far as it is reasonably practicable, to ensure that those installations are placed in walls or recesses, thus tidying up the scene in those towns?
It is not always easy to instal poles without creating some obstruction but I think the standard is improving in this respect. In regard to the placing of kiosks, it depends on the facilities available. Every effort is made to place them in the best positions possible.
I do not agree at all that the Department are in any way co-operative.
Is the Minister aware that the Deputy is not in agreement?
I know of instances in which, when asked to place these poles in a wall or recess, the engineering section insisted on placing them on the public towpath.