asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he is aware that the opening of the new telephone exchange in Castlebar, County Mayo, has been postponed; if he is aware of the consequences of such postponement; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Castlebar Telephone Exchange.
109.
Work on installation of a larger manual telephone exchange in a new building at Castlebar is proceeding as quickly as possible. It is expected that the larger exchange will be in service by about the end of July.
Is the Minister aware that this exchange was built because the facilities at Castlebar are completely inadequate? Last summer during the tourist season conditions prevailing for operators and others were intolerable. There is a threat that unless this exchange is opened immediately the operators must withdraw their labour. If this happens, it will be the Minister's fault. I understand from operators at home that the exchange is just ready to be opened. Could the Minister expedite this matter?
The Department are very anxious to have the exchange opened as quickly as possible. We are assured that it is not ready to go into operation, but we will be opening it as soon as it is ready.