Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he will explain the delay in providing a social welfare office in Lucan, County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [47984/12]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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The Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the acquisition and maintenance of office accommodation for the Department of Social Protection. The provision of a new local office to serve the Lucan area is being considered by the Office of Public Works acting on behalf of the Department.

In the meantime, Jobseeker claims for people living in the Lucan area are administered by the Social Welfare Local Office in Clondalkin. Signing-on for the majority of jobseekers occurs once in any 4-week period. However, to avoid the necessity for people in Lucan to travel to Clondalkin, they may sign-on at a signing centre in Lucan Village which is open 5 days per month.

These arrangements are being kept under review and if necessary will be amended to ensure that a reasonable level of service is provided to the people of Lucan.