Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Question 331: To ask the Minister for Social Protection the additional office accommodation required in the Cork area in view of the significant increase in the numbers of persons on the live register and the strains this is placing on existing office infrastructure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26996/11]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Office of Public Works has responsibility for the acquisition and maintenance of office accommodation for the Department of Social Protection.

At present, there are two social welfare offices in the Cork City area. These are located in Hanover Street and Carrigaline. Hanover Street is a very large office, operating at very close to full capacity. Over the last few years my Department has reviewed the scale of its operations in Hanover Street, and has concluded that, in the light of its policy to deliver more of its services at a local level to targeted groups such as people seeking work, lone parents and pensioners, that it would be in the best interests of its customers and the citizens of Cork City to open an additional office in the city. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Office of Public Works to acquire an additional premises in Cork City.

This matter is being considered by the Office of Public Works at present.