Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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107. To ask the Minister for Social Protection the tendering arrangements that have been put in place for the renting of offices for social welfare branch offices; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24159/14]

Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Opportunities to provide Branch Office services on behalf of the Department are advertised in the National and Local Press. Following inspection of proposed premises and interview by Departmental officials, the successful candidate is offered an appointment as Branch Manager on a contract for services basis. The contract is awarded subject to the provision of adequate accommodation and staffing. An all-inclusive payment is made in respect of Branch Offices where the average claimload is below 500 per week. Remuneration in respect of an office with an average claim load in excess of that number comprises three elements i.e. a Basic Salary, Tiered Services Allowance and Variable Costs Allowance. The Services Allowance is payable subject to the maintenance by Branch Managers of an adequate standard of accommodation and is intended to cover all operational costs.