Departmental Offices

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 February 2012

Wednesday, 29 February 2012

Ceisteanna (125)

Alan Farrell

Ceist:

128 Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will give an update on the acquisition of an appropriately located community welfare office in Dublin North, on which she had previously instructed the Office of Public Works to locate as an alternative to the current arrangement of residents having to travel to the current office in Gardiner Street, Dublin 1 to apply for certain benefits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11786/12]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Joan Burton)

The Office of Public Works, on behalf of my Department, is in the process of acquiring suitable accommodation for the establishment of new public offices in Balbriggan and Swords as a matter of priority. All available options are being examined in the context of a viable accommodation solution, taking account of the operational needs of the Department, the service needs of the local community and also the need to demonstrate value for money to the taxpayer in the acquisition of property.