Staff from the Department of Health and Social Security could return to Markwell House at the start of next week.

If the clean-up operation continues at the current rate, workers from the ground and fourth floor will be back at their normal desks on Monday.

The building has been closed to public and staff since Wednesday morning, after a leak flooded the building overnight.

The worst damaged areas, on the third floor, will not be fully operational until the end of next week, and the building will not be open to the public until at least Tuesday.

Chief executive officer of the DHSS David Killip explains how one leak caused so much damage (play attached audio file):

People due to 'sign on' on Monday are not required to do so, and will be issued with a giro as usual.

(Picture: Inside Marwell House on Friday).