Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 209: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if arrangements are being put in place in relation to a branch office in Dunmanway in County Cork, which was closed following the untimely death of the branch manager over four months ago, and to indicate a reopening date. [31619/07]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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Due to the untimely death of the Branch Manager in Dunmanway arrangements had to be put in place immediately to ensure continuity of service to customers. All claims originally catered for in Dunmanway were transferred to the Department's office in Bantry as an interim arrangement to ensure that payments were not interrupted.

Arrangements were subsequently made to distribute the claims between five neighbouring branch offices in Bandon, Bantry, Clonakilty, Macroom and Skibereen. The distribution of the claims took into account the proximity of the adjoining branch offices and the availability of public transport. Customers are facilitated on request to change from their designated branch office when other offices prove more accessible. Service to customers has not been interrupted by these arrangements and payments are continuing as they fall due. The Social Welfare Inspector, based in Dunmanway, holds an office morning on Tuesday mornings which is open to the public and deals with any information queries.

In keeping with normal procedures when a branch office post becomes vacant, a review of the delivery of social welfare services in the area served by Dunmanway branch office is being undertaken to determine the most effective way of providing these services in the future. The review in respect of Dunmanway is expected to be completed shortly.