Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 September 2020
761. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of vacant desk spaces available in accommodation allocated to her Department in civil service accommodation outside Dublin city; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22488/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe State property portfolio is managed by the OPW, with accommodation allocated to Departments based on business and operational needs. I am advised that the vacancy rate across OPW's office portfolio, including this Department, is of the order of 1%.
My Department has more than 6,500 staff operating in 221 locations, including 13 main offices and 75 Intreo Centres.
Although all of our offices have continued to operate, the Deputy will appreciate that during the current Covid19 pandemic a large number of staff have been working from home. More than 1,500 staff have been accessing their work computers remotely, while others have been using Department laptops. This has allowed us to continue providing services with staff in offices being socially distanced.
