Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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Question 310: To ask the Minister for Social Protection if his Department operates any number utilising the lo-call designation, 1890; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that use of this number can impose additional costs on mobile phone users; if he will ensure that where such numbers are advertised in the press, online or in literature that this additional cost is noted, and that a standard geographic phone number is also given; if this is not currently done, if he will ensure that this will be done; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41246/10]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The Department currently operates nine LoCall Numbers from its headquarters buildings dealing with customers on a national basis. These LoCall numbers were introduced to streamline telephone services and reduce the costs incurred by customers contacting these offices. The Department receives approximately half-a-million telephone calls per month across the network of Local Offices and headquarters buildings. I am aware that customers calling 1890 (LoCall) numbers from mobile phones may incur additional changes and that tariffs may vary between service providers. Where Departmental LoCall numbers are advertised on the Department's website www.welfare.ie , or in Departmental literature, they are accompanied by a note explaining that rates charged for the use of 1890 numbers may vary among different service providers. An alternative, standard number is also provided which can be used by customers calling the Department from their mobile phones. Where LoCall numbers are used in the Department's press advertisements alternative information sources and communication channels are listed such as email and SMS (text) services, the www.welfare.ie website, and the network of Local and Branch Offices. Where the advertisement specifically concerns Local Office arrangements the relevant geographic phone number is provided.

I am satisfied that the Department provides a range of customer contact channels including telephony services, online services and the network of Local and Branch Offices which ensure that customers can access information and services in the most cost effective way, and that, insofar as is possible, customers are made aware of the cost of and alternatives to the Department's LoCall telephony service.