asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the work that has been undertaken to expand the telephone exchange in Thurles, County Tipperary; when this work will be complete; and, when completed, the number of additional telephone lines the exchange will be able to service.

A 400 subscribers line extension to Thurles exchange has been installed and is being tested at present. It is expected to be brought into service in about a month's time.

48.