asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he proposes to set up a local information centre in County Monaghan.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Monaghan Information Centre.
14.
There are no immediate proposals for opening a local information centre in County Monaghan. Information regarding the services administered by my Department may, however, be obtained from the employment offices in Carrickmacross, Castleblaney, Clones and Monaghan, the local agents in Ballybay, Castleblaney, Clones and Monaghan, and the social welfare officers in Clones and Monaghan.
Have the persons in the 20 or so centres in operation any specialised training?
Specialised training in so far as they are aware of entitlements under the Social Welfare Acts. I should mention that I would be anxious that as many information centres as possible be opened throughout the country. In fact, some 21 offices have been opened and are in operation over the last two years.
Have the persons operating those offices any specialised training over and above that of persons in local offices?
Yes, in the information centres, they have. There is a training programme with the Department for personnel who will man the information centres. There is a hope and a desire that these information offices will be extended throughout the country.
What criterion was used in deciding on the 21 centres that are in operation?
Mainly the need and volume of inquiries dealt with in particular centres. I am referring specifically now to the Monaghan area and also to the fact that there are a reasonable number of places where information can be obtained in County Monaghan.