Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

The reality of the situation is that files are left sitting on the desks when staff are absent from work due to illness, maternity leave or annual leave. I am being told when I contact the social welfare office that particular matters are not being dealt with as the person dealing with them is out of the office. The Minister needs to tackle this issue. It is not in one or two places, it is across the board and that is the Minister's responsibility.

The Minister said the new appointment system is in place in 20 offices and will be set up in 20 more. If it is working so well, why not put in place everywhere?

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