asked the Taoiseach if, in view of the growing complexity of legislation and because of the uncertainty which exists within the community in regard to social and legal entitlement, the Government will undertake to establish citizens' advice bureaux throughout the country, initially in strategic provincial centres.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Citizens' Advice Bureaux.
1.
I consider that the requirements of the public for advice on such matters are adequately met by public representatives, Departments of State, local authorities and various voluntary organisations.
How, for example, does a citizen get advice from a Member of this House or the Seanad when the Dáil and Seanad are in session?
A good party organisation would have somebody acting for the person in his own constituency.
It is some years since the last White Paper was issued on this EEC application——
The Deputy is on the wrong question.
I beg your pardon.
Is the Taoiseach aware that there are many people who do not know their legal entitlements and would it not be advisable that there should be legal advice available to them? With the complexities of modern life and so many regulations concerning our entitlements——
That is very bad trade unionism the Deputy is preaching.
What is?
That there should be legal advice available to citizens?
Yes. People earn a living by that.
The Taoiseach would consider that that is bad trade unionism?
I would, yes.