merrion street

Mr. Brian Hayes, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW), today officially announced the closure of the Government Publications Sales Office, Molesworth Street, Dublin 2, with effect from 23rd November 2012.

Minister Hayes said: “The OPW, through the Government Supplies Agency, has operated a Government Publications Sales Office in Molesworth Street for many years. However, the nature of publishing has changed dramatically in recent years, with a steady decline in demand for hard copies of Government Publications. The general move to electronic only publishing, the increase in use of the internet and of course the economic downturn have resulted in a much reduced footfall to the shop on Molesworth Street.

For example sales revenue at the Molesworth Street shop has declined by over 50% since 2008. The great majority of all publications sold are sold via the call centre which is operated by the OPW.

I have made the decision to close this shop with effect from close of business on 23rd November 2012. In order to minimise inconvenience to the public, the OPW will continue to provide a Postal Trade Section for customers who previously used the Publications shop. This call centre will be open Monday to Friday 09.30 to 13.00 and 14.00 to 17.00 with knowledgeable members of staff available to assist callers and accept order payments by card, cheque or postal order. There will also be a dedicated email address, with all queries responded to on the next working day.”

The Minister concluded: “I have decided to close the Publications Shop primarily as a cost cutting measure but in making this decision I have also taken into consideration the decline in footfall to the premises. There will be savings achieved in surrendering the lease, but also ancillary staff and logistical savings arising from this decision. I am satisfied that the excellent service which has been provided to customers over the years will be maintained under these new arrangements.”