asked the Minister for External Affairs when it is proposed to establish the new passport office; and where it will be situated.

The Office of Public Works is looking into the question of securing alternative accommodation for the Passport Office. At this stage it would not be possible to say when this accommodation will be secured or where it will be situated.

Would the Minister not agree that the facilities offered in this office, to staff as well as to public, are grossly inadequate? Perhaps he might urge the Board of Works to get on with the job and we might get a new Passport Office by this summer?

Yes, we are trying to have something done as soon as possible.

For the summer?

There must be a split up there now.