asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs when a telephone will be installed for a person (name supplied) in County Meath.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath Telephone Application.
51.
Probably during the second quarter of 1974.
This man paid his money practically three months ago. It is normal for a person to be connected within three months of paying his money.
As a general rule within two to three months after the completion of the agreement. It is expected that the telephone of the prospective subscriber will be installed in the second quarter of 1974.
Could the Minister give me any reason for the delay in this case?
I understand that the number of applications on hand at the exchange in question is as follows: one dating from 1972 and 12 from 1973. The 12 in 1973 include the subscriber about whom the Deputy is concerned. As I have explained in answer to a number of questions on this whole matter, the connection of a number of telephones has been held up as a result of an insufficient capital injection in the past in circumstances into which I have already gone on the Telephone Capital Bill. I am concerned about the situation in general. I should like to add that I think it is unusual in most parliaments for Ministers responsible for telecommunications to have to answer questions about individual subscribers.
Deputies
Oh!
I would remind Deputies that it is now past the time for questions. May I have the permission of the House to deal with the last remaining question to the Minister?
Was there a change in plans after this man had paid his money?
If the Minister has the permission of the House, could we get an answer to that question?
I have no information on that.
Arising out of that reply——
I have given Deputy Crinion every latitude. I am calling Question No. 52.