asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether he will introduce a time-limit on all local calls with a view to easing the chronic overloading of the telephone network.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Telephone Network Overloading.
121.
It would not be feasible without the installation of additional equipment at automatic exchanges throughout the country to introduce time-limits or timing of all local calls in automatic areas nor would it be feasible to do so in manual exchanges without serious operating difficulties.
I do not understand the remarks of the Parliamentary Secretary. If the system I suggested had not been in practice before I could accept it would be impossible to do it. However, the present system was a departure and what I am seeking is a reversion to the old system. There cannot be anything difficult or impossible about that.
It would appear that there are difficulties. I am sure the Deputy will accept that to revert back to something frequently is more difficult than to go forward——
For face-saving reasons?
No, for practical and technical reasons. It would not appear to be in the best interests of the service at the moment.
As the Parliamentary Secretary has not been in office for very long perhaps he has an open mind on the matter. If decisions are taken after long deliberation by estimable people, one hundred and one reasons mav later be advanced that have nothing to do with the situation to justify the retention of the decision rather than admit that a mistake was made in the first place. Will the Parliamentary Secretary not agree there is a danger of this happening?
The information before me is that to introduce a time-limit for local calls would involve che provision of substantial additional exchange equipment. As I have indicated in replies to previous questions, there is a problem regarding the entire matter of telephone communications facing the Minister.
What would be the situation if my suggestion applied only lo manual exchanges?
It would require substantial additional equipment.