asked the Taoiseach whether he is aware of the valuable work of co-ordination done by the Citizens Advice Bureaux in Great Britain; and whether he will take steps to promote the establishment of a corresponding service in Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Citizens Advice Bureaux.
1.
I have seen reports regarding the Citizens Advice Bureaux which operate in Great Britain. I am of the opinion that the need for them which exists in that country appears to be adequately met here by public representatives and various charitable organisations.
Has the Taoiseach's attention been directed to the fact that certain old and destitute people, particularly those living in solitary rooms in the city of Dublin and other such places, are frequently discovered not to be aware of the social services available for their relief? In those circumstances, would it not be desirable to have some organisation, preferably of a voluntary character, to which such people could be referred for assistance in order to bring them into contact with the appropriate social relief provided either by the State or the local authority?
The Deputy is aware that there is a number of such organisations functioning in Dublin and, as far as I know, there is no complaint in regard to the adequacy of the service provided by them.
Perhaps the Taoiseach would cause further inquiries to be made to determine whether my information or his is correct—that there are, not a considerable number, but a certain number of old people whose circumstances could be relieved if full advantage were taken of the available services but who suffer for the want of knowledge of where to turn for that relief.