asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the number of applications at present on hands for telephone service in County Offaly; the number of cases dealt with since 1st January 1962; and when it is hoped that service will be provided in the remaining cases.

The answers to the first and second parts of the question are about 100 and 300 respectively. It is hoped to clear the bulk of the waiting applicants referred to within the next 12 months.