asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is satisfied with present working conditions in employment exchanges and, if not, the measures he intends taking to improve these conditions.

I am not satisfied with present working conditions in certain employment exchanges.

With the co-operation of the Office of Public Works I have already initiated a special programme for the renovation of unsatisfactory accommodation and for the provision of new exchanges where necessary.

Under this programme, improvement schemes are at present in progress in a number of exchanges.

Additional premises have been acquired in Dublin and these are being adapted to relieve overcrowding in existing exchanges as soon as possible.

Two sites have also been acquired in Dublin suburban areas recently for new exchanges and negotiations for a third are at an advanced stage.

I also propose to incorporate employment exchanges in certain Government offices under construction throughout the country.

Would the Minister be able to say when the improvements in Werburgh Street and Victoria Street Employment Exchanges will be completed?

The present position about renovations and changes is that major work is due to commence in Victoria Street in July 1979, and in Werburgh Street, after the recent robberies which took place, arrangements are being made for protection there.