asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state (1) the total number of applications for telephone service outstanding in the Dublin North-West area, and (2) the number over (a) three years outstanding; (b) two years outstanding; (c) one year outstanding; (d) six months outstanding; further, if he is aware of the urgent necessity for a new cable to serve this area; and, if so, whether in view of the unemployment in the city at the present time and the considerable inconvenience caused to the many applicants and residents in the area, he will state why this installation is not being undertaken immediately.

The information requested is as follows:—(1) 200. (2) (a) nil; (b) nil; (c) 102; (d) 53. A major scheme to provide additional main underground cabling in the area is already in hand and the first portion of the scheme which will serve the Phibsboro' area is due for completion within a few months.